National Karate Champion Ross Mathieu is looking to coaching after securing his title for the third time in a row last month.

Ross, from Harcourt Road, Stratford, said he got into Karate after being inspired by his dad fighting and coaching him at a young age.

“I have been doing this since I was five when my dad got me into it, as he used to fight when I was little and now he coaches alongside me and has had a 38-year career in Karate, so its always been my passion ever since.”

Other than competing and training for competitions, the 25-year-old also is planning his future in coaching by recently starting his own Karate academy – the Mathieu Karate Academy – at Forest Gate School.

The high-kicking star will set aside his Thursday evenings to coach at the school alongside his dad from 6pm.

“I am still fighting, as I compete nationally and internationally for England, but I want to do exactly what my dad did for me – finding a future world champion through passing on my knowledge.”

Visit rossmathieu.co.uk to find out more about how to get involved with Karate lessons at Forest Gate School