MEET THE MASTERS

Grandmaster Nigel Hudson. 8th Dan

With nearly 40 years of involvement in Taekwondo, I’ve walked the path as a student, instructor, competitor, and as someone committed to developing Taekwondo clubs, associations, and governance structures across the UK and beyond.


Throughout my journey, I’ve had the privilege of coaching athletes to international gold medal standards in both Sport and Poomsae. I’ve served on the World Taekwondo Publicity Department, contributed to the Poomsae Committee of Taekwondo Europe, and held the role of Performance Director for British Taekwondo.


I played a key role in establishing the UK Taekwondo Development Council, and I’ve held numerous positions across the global Taekwondo community. I am officially registered in Korea with the Kukkiwon as an International Instructor and Dan Grade Examiner, currently to 7th Dan. I’m also proud to be recognised by the World Taekwondo Chungdokwan in Korea, where Consult Taekwondo holds official status.


My service has been acknowledged with awards from Kukkiwon, the World Chungdokwan, the Ethiopian Sports Council, and other organisations — but my greatest reward remains teaching.


To this day, I actively instruct at the Inspire Taekwondo Academy and continue sharing our art around the world

Master Phil Towson. 4th Dan

My Taekwondo journey began back in 2000, when I first stepped onto the mats at Edge Hill University under the guidance of Grandmaster Hudson. What started as curiosity quickly became a lifelong passion.


Over the years, through dedication, discipline, and countless hours of training, I’ve earned the rank of 4th Dan—a milestone that reflects not just technical skill, but a deep commitment to the art and philosophy of Taekwondo.

As a proud member of Inspire Taekwondo, I’ve had the privilege of competing in Poomsae at national and international levels. Representing our club, I’ve brought home medals from prestigious events including the Belgium Open, the BTCB International, and the BTCB National Championships. Each competition has been a chance to grow, connect with fellow martial artists, and showcase the precision and spirit that Inspire stands for.


Today, I serve as a Senior Instructor for Inspire Skem Little Kickers, where I help shape the next generation of martial artists. Working with young students is one of the most rewarding parts of my role—watching their confidence grow, their focus sharpen, and their respect for themselves and others deepen. I also support the club as a Kup Grade Examiner, ensuring our students progress with integrity and excellence.



Taekwondo has given me so much over the years, and I’m proud to pass that on. My experience, passion, and belief in the power of martial arts are at the heart of everything I do at Inspire. Together, we’re building not just strong martial artists, but strong communities.

Master Chris Codling. 6th Dan

I've been immersed in Taekwondo for over 40 years, and it's been far more than a discipline—it's been a lifelong passion and purpose. My journey has taken me from student to instructor, and from national competitor to international official. I’m proud to have played a part in shaping the sport both here in the UK and around the world.


As one of the UK's most senior Sport referees, I've had the privilege of officiating at some of the most prestigious competitions across the globe. For more than three decades, I've stood on the mats at World Championships, European events, and countless international tournaments—always with a commitment to fairness, integrity, and the highest standards of Taekwondo.


Today, I bring that same dedication to Inspire, where I serve as the Sports Coach. It's a joy to pass on what I've learned to the next generation, helping them grow not just as athletes, but as individuals. Being inducted into the Taekwondo Hall of Fame was a humbling recognition of my contributions—but the real reward is seeing students thrive and fall in love with the art, just as I did.

Master Nikki Brennan. 4th Dan

With over 20 years of experience in martial arts, I’m proud to bring my passion, discipline, and dedication to Inspire Taekwondo. Under the guidance of Grandmaster Hudson, I’ve earned my 4th Dan black belt—a milestone that reflects years of training, perseverance, and a deep respect for the art.


My journey in Taekwondo has taken me across the globe, earning international gold medals in both Poomsae (patterns) and sparring. These achievements reflect not just my love for the art, but a deep commitment to mastering its techniques—from precise, choreographed forms to the dynamic intensity of combat.


Outside the dojang, I’m also a fully qualified Nurse Practitioner. Health and well-being are central to everything I do, and I’m passionate about helping others thrive—whether through martial arts or healthcare.


One of my proudest roles is being a founding instructor of our Little Kickers program. I believe in nurturing young talent and creating a space where children can grow in confidence, discipline, and joy. Supporting the next generation of martial artists is one of the most rewarding parts of being an instructor at Inspire Taekwondo.


At Inspire Taekwondo, I strive to bring a unique blend of martial arts expertise, healthcare insight, and heartfelt mentorship to every student I teach.

Master David Hudson. 4th Dan

I first stepped onto the Taekwondo mat back in the 1980s, and made it to Red belt black tag before life took me in other directions. After a 20-year break, I found my way back in 2017—returning to Inspire Academy, where my passion for the art was reignited.


Since then, I’ve become a 4th Dan Master and a proud member of the Inspire teaching network. It’s an honour to guide students on their own journeys, sharing not just technique but the deeper values Taekwondo instills.


Beyond teaching, I also help shape the academy behind the scenes—overseeing our membership and financial structure to ensure Inspire continues to grow and thrive. It’s a role I take seriously, because I believe in what we’re building here: a community rooted in discipline, respect, and lifelong learning.