Aaron McCloat

Aaron began karate lessons in his local hall in the Jersey Channel Islands when he was 4. He then moved to Jersey Shotokan Karate Club where he trained alongside his younger brother, under Bill Gorthy 8th Dan, TSKA. It was here where Aaron was exposed to many experienced karate-ka, developed his passion for karate, and graded to 1st kyu.

Aaron and his family moved to Sligo in 2018, and he began training with Keelan. In June 2021, he passed his 1st dan black belt. In September 2023, he passed his 2nd dan under a panel of Scott Langley (Ireland), Gabriel Van Rel (England) and Ross Stewart (Scotland).

In September 2022, Aaron started working as a trainee instructor with Ealaín Karate Dojo before teaching his own classes.

In April 2024, Aaron won the Highest Achieving Sportsperson of the Year award at the ATU Sligo Clubs and Society Awards night, for his achievements in karate. 

Aaron has a fun yet technical teaching style, with a keen focus on body mechanics. Aaron teaches midweek at the Strandhill Dojo and Friday in the Ballisodare Dojo.

Outside of karate, Aaron is studying construction in college. He has a passion for guitar playing and all things outdoors.