Colin Cass

Head Instructor - Level 3

👨‍🏫 Meet Colin Cass – Head Instructor at Mindsparx Karate Academy

“You don’t have to be the strongest person in the room — just brave enough to step into it.”
Have you ever felt like you're not fit enough, confident enough, or maybe just not young enough to try something new?

Worried your child is too shy… too distracted… or struggling to focus in school?
Maybe you're looking for something to help them believe in themselves again — or maybe you're looking for that yourself.

Hi, I’m Colin Cass, Head Instructor and co-founder of Mindsparx Karate Academy here in Aberdeen. And I want you to know — you’re in the right place.

👊 Who I Am — And Why I Do This

I’ve spent over 25 years in martial arts, teaching kids, teens, and adults how to punch, kick, block — yes.
But more importantly? How to build confidence, gain control, and feel like they belong somewhere.

I’m a:

🥋 3rd Dan Black Belt in Wado Ryu
👨‍⚕️ Registered Nurse of 10+ years
💪 Qualified Personal Trainer & Nutrition Coach
🧠 Transformational Mindset Coach
👨‍🏫 Qualified Teacher (Level 3)
👨‍👧‍👦 And most importantly… someone who cares deeply about helping people grow.

Everything I do — every lesson I teach — is about creating a safe, positive, and empowering space where you (or your child) can show up, breathe out, and grow in confidence and skill, one step at a time.

🤝 What You’ll Get With Me as Your Instructor
A calm, encouraging voice that sees your potential, even if you don’t yet
A class where your wellbeing comes first — thanks to my background in healthcare and first aid
Coaching that builds resilience, discipline, and mental focus, not just fighting skills
A safe place to ask questions, make mistakes, and celebrate your wins — big or small

🧠 Because It’s About More Than Karate
Let me ask you something:

Do you want your child to learn how to manage their emotions and believe in themselves?
Are you craving a space where you can be challenged — but never judged?
Are you ready to do something that pushes you physically and builds you mentally?
That’s what we do at Mindsparx. And I’d be honoured to guide you or your child on that journey.

🚀 Ready to Get Started?
You don’t need to be fit, flexible, or fearless — you just need to be willing to try.

Book a free trial class with us today. Walk through the doors. And let me show you how powerful martial arts can be when it’s taught with care, compassion, and purpose.

🥋 I’ll see you on the mat.

– Colin

Tracey Cass

Manager/ Lead Junior Instructor - Level 3

👩‍🏫 Meet Tracey Cass – Managing Director & Lead Junior Instructor at Mindsparx Karate Academy

“Confidence doesn’t just happen — it grows with care, structure, and support.”
Is your child struggling with confidence, focus, or anxiety in social situations?
Do they need more structure, better discipline — but in a way that’s positive and supportive?
Are you looking for a place where your child will be seen, heard, and encouraged, not just corrected?

Hi, I’m Tracey Cass, Managing Director and Lead Junior Instructor here at Mindsparx Karate Academy in Aberdeen.
And if those questions sound familiar — you’re in the right place.

💡 What I Bring to Every Class

I don’t just teach kids how to kick and block — I teach them how to stand tall, believe in themselves, and feel safe in their own skin. With years of experience in martial arts, child protection, education, and emotional wellbeing, I help children develop life skills through Karate in a way that’s fun, empowering, and age-appropriate.

✅ Why Families Trust Me to Teach Their Children
🥋 Qualified Martial Artist with Heart
I’m a 2nd Dan Black Belt, a BCKA Approved Instructor, and a Level 3 Certified Teacher — but more importantly, I make sure every child feels excited to show up, eager to learn, and proud of what they achieve.

🛡️ Certified Child Protection & Safeguarding Professional
Your child’s safety is my highest priority. I hold certifications in NSPCC Child Protection, Anti-Bullying, Wellbeing in Sport, and I’m also a Safeguarding Officer. I create an environment where kids feel safe, supported, and never judged.

📚 Former Childline Volunteer & Emotional Mentor
Having supported young people through difficult moments as a Childline Counsellor, I understand the emotional pressures many kids face today. Whether it’s anxiety, low self-esteem, or difficulty expressing themselves — I meet each child where they are, with compassion and care.

🩹 Health, Safety & First Aid Trainer
With a Level 3 First Aid Assessor qualification, I ensure that every class runs with professional-level health and safety practices in place — and with the calm, nurturing presence that children need to thrive.

💬 My Philosophy: “Every child deserves a place where they can feel strong, respected, and proud.”
Whether your child is bursting with energy or feeling a little lost, I’m here to help them channel that into something powerful. Karate is the tool — but confidence, resilience, and emotional intelligence are the real results.

I see the spark in every child — even the quiet ones — and I love nothing more than helping them realise what they’re capable of.

🧒 A Message to Parents…
Are you tired of your child being overlooked in team sports?
Do they need a boost in self-esteem after a tough time at school?
Are you just looking for something that teaches discipline without shouting, and confidence without pressure?
Then come and see what we do at Mindsparx. I’d love to welcome you both to our community.

🚀 Book a Free Trial Class Today
At Mindsparx Karate Academy, we’re here to help your child grow into a confident, focused, and resilient young warrior — through martial arts that put their wellbeing first.

✨ You don’t need them to be perfect. Just let them begin.

🥋 I can’t wait to meet them.
– Tracey

Steph Watson - Level 2

Instructor - Director of Kumite

👩‍🏫 Meet Steph – Karate Kubz Founder & Instructor at Mindsparx Karate Academy

“It’s not just about the kicks — it’s about building a confident little human, one smile at a time.”
Are you looking for a way to help your little one build confidence, develop coordination, and have fun in a safe, structured environment?

Do you want something that supports their focus, independence — and lets you share in their progress, side by side?

Hi, I’m Steph, a mum, martial artist, and physiotherapist — and I know just how powerful those early years are for your child’s development.

That’s why I created Karate Kubz here at Mindsparx — a playful, nurturing, parent-and-child program designed to build skills through movement, connection, and fun.

💡 Why Parents & Little Ones Love Training with Me
🥋 1st Dan Black Belt & BCKA Approved Instructor

With years of martial arts experience, both in competition and coaching, I bring structure, energy, and care into every session — always meeting each child at their own pace.

👩‍👧 A Mum Who Gets It

I understand tantrums, wobbles, and busy brains — because I’ve been there too. That’s why our Karate Kubz program focuses on gentle encouragement, positive language, and movement-based learning that helps little ones thrive.

🌟 Elite-Level Experience, Delivered with Heart

As Director of Kumite for our Elite Athlete Programme, I work with our most advanced students to develop performance strategies for national and international competition. That same level of care, attention, and structure is built into every single Kubz session — just with more giggles and bubbles.

🩺 Physio-Led, Child-Safe Training

As an Intensive Care Physiotherapist, I bring a professional understanding of movement, posture, balance, and development. That means everything we do in class is designed to be safe, effective, and age-appropriate, helping your child grow strong and stay injury-free.

💬 My Philosophy: “Let’s build your child’s confidence, one high five at a time.”

My mission is simple — to give children a safe, joyful first step into martial arts, while giving parents the chance to connect, encourage, and celebrate their little one’s progress every step of the way.

❤️ What Karate Kubz Gives Your Child

A huge boost in confidence and independence
Better listening skills, focus, and early discipline
A safe outlet for energy, emotion, and curiosity
A positive early experience of movement and teamwork
A chance to shine — in their own unique way
And for you? It’s a chance to share that journey — every step, every smile, every little fist bump.

🚀 Ready to See Your Little One Shine?

Whether your child is shy or super active, the Karate Kubz program is designed to help them feel proud of who they are — and excited about who they’re becoming.

🥋 Book your FREE trial today and give them the gift of confidence, connection, and fun.
✨ I’d love to welcome you both onto the mat.

– Steph

John Stewart

Logistics Manager

🧰 Meet John – Logistics Manager & Competition Team Support at Mindsparx Karate Academy

“You may not always see me on the mat — but I’m with every student, every step of the way.”
Ever wondered who keeps the wheels turning behind the scenes?
Who makes sure the gear’s packed, the venue’s ready, the videos are rolling, and the competition team has everything they need to succeed?

That’s where I come in.

I’m John, and while you won’t always find me centre stage, I’m one of the people who helps make every session, event, and success at Mindsparx possible.

💪 My Background — Built on Discipline, Purpose & Quiet Support
🥋 1st Dan Black Belt & Karate Coach

With years of martial arts training and competition experience, I’ve worked closely with our athletes — not just to improve technique, but to prepare mentally and logistically for success.

🎥 Videographer & Student Storyteller

I capture those small wins, big moments, and proud smiles — documenting the journey of our students so they (and their families) can look back and say, “I did that.”

🪖 Former Royal Marine – Discipline & Leadership

My time in the military taught me how to lead with calm, stay focused under pressure, and support a team — qualities I bring to every event, every student, every class.

🛡️ Child-Safe & Competition-Ready

I’m trained in First Aid, Child Protection, and Anti-Bullying — so whether I’m helping on the mat or travelling with our team, student safety and wellbeing always come first.

🧠 Why My Role Matters

I make sure your child has what they need before they even realise it
I capture the proud moments you don’t want to miss
I help create an environment where our athletes can focus fully on their performance — because everything else has already been handled

💬 What Drives Me: “Support isn’t always loud — but it’s always there.”
My goal is simple: to help students succeed, in any way I can.
Sometimes that means adjusting a belt.
Sometimes it’s driving a minibus full of nervous kids to a competition.
Other times it’s stepping back, filming from the corner, and giving them space to shine.

No matter what it is — I’m all in.

🧡 A Key Part of the Mindsparx Family
I might not be the one calling commands on the mat, but I’m part of everything we do — from logistics and travel, to technical support, to celebrating every student's journey.

Whether I’m helping load equipment, adjusting a sound system, or offering quiet words of encouragement to a first-time competitor — I’m proud to be part of a team that puts people first.

🎯 Join a Community That Works Together
At Mindsparx Karate Academy, we’re more than instructors and students — we’re a team. A family. A support system.

And I’ll be here, making sure everything runs smoothly so you or your child can focus on growing, learning, and thriving.

🥋 Ready to join a karate academy that’s got your back — in every way?
🎥 Book your free trial today and see the difference.

– John

Lynzi

Reception Team Member

👋 Meet Lynzi – Volunteer and Reception Team Member at Mindsparx Karate Academy

“I know what it’s like to be the new parent at the door — that’s why I’m here to welcome you in.”
Are you thinking about signing your child up for karate but feeling unsure about what to expect?
Have questions about class times, uniforms, grading, or how your child will settle in?
Maybe you’re just hoping for a friendly face and someone who gets it.

Hi, I’m Lynzi, Volunteer and Reception Team Member here at Mindsparx Karate Academy — and I promise, I’ve been exactly where you are.

💡 My Journey with Mindsparx

I started out as a karate parent — watching my kids grow in confidence, focus, and strength through their training. But what I didn’t expect? Was how much I would grow too.

Now I’m:

🥋 A dedicated Brown Belt, working towards my black belt
💬 The first person you’ll meet when you arrive at Mindsparx and I'll ensure everything stays smooth and supportive
💪 Training to become a Personal Trainer
🤝 Why I Love What I Do
👩‍👧‍👦 I’m a karate parent, just like you.

I know the nerves before that first class… the pride when they earn that next belt… and the questions you might not want to ask out loud. That’s what I’m here for — to make sure you feel just as supported as your child does.

💻 I work behind the scenes so our instructors can focus 100% on your child’s progress.

💬 I’m here to help. Always.
No question is too small. Whether it’s “Where do I buy the gi?” or “What happens on grading day?” — I’ve got you. If you’re unsure, overwhelmed, or just want to chat — come find me at the front desk.

🧠 A Safe Space Starts at the Door
I’m fully certified in Child Protection, Anti-Bullying, and First Aid — because safety and wellbeing start the moment you walk through our doors. I make sure every student and every parent feels safe, welcome, and heard.

💬 My Philosophy: “Karate is about more than belts — it’s about becoming who you were meant to be.”
I’ve seen it in my kids. I’ve felt it in myself. And I see it every day in the students who walk in shy, unsure — and leave with their heads high.

If you’re looking for a karate community that really cares, where your child will be known, guided, and cheered on — this is it.

🚪 Come Say Hello – I’d Love to Meet You
Whether you’re:

A parent thinking about enrolling
A student coming in for your first class
Or just curious about what Mindsparx is all about…
I’ll be here to greet you with a smile, answer your questions, and help make sure you (and your family) feel completely at home.

🥋 Stop by the desk. Let’s chat. Let’s grow.
– Lynzi

Ashleigh

Fundraising Coordinator

💫 Meet Ashleigh – Volunteer, Fundraising Coordinator & Karate Mum at Mindsparx Karate Academy

“When you see what karate can do for your own child… you just want to give something back.”
Have you ever watched your child find their confidence again?
Or seen them stand taller, speak more clearly, or finally believe in themselves?

That’s what happened for me.
Hi, I’m Ashleigh — proud karate mum, volunteer, Fundraising Coordinator, and part of the amazing community here at Mindsparx Karate Academy.

After watching how karate transformed my children — their confidence, their discipline, their mindset — I knew I wanted to do more than just cheer from the side lines. I wanted to help other families experience the same growth.

💡 What I Do at Mindsparx

🤝 Building Community Through Fundraising

I organise fundraising events that not only support the academy, but also bring families together. From raffles to fun days and team nights, these activities help fund travel, equipment, and competition costs — so no child ever misses out because of finances.

🎉 Event Planning with Heart

Every event is designed with care and creativity — not just to raise funds, but to build connection between parents, students, and supporters. It’s about keeping the community strong and inclusive.

👩‍👧‍👦 Giving Back, One Family at a Time

As a karate parent, I know what it’s like to see your child go from unsure to unstoppable. That’s why I’m committed to supporting other families on the same journey — and making sure everyone feels welcome, supported, and part of something special.

💬 Why It Matters

Every pound we raise helps a student reach their potential
Every event we hold creates memories, friendships, and opportunities
Every family that joins us strengthens the Mindsparx community
Fundraising isn’t just about money — it’s about making karate accessible, sustainable, and joyful for every student and parent involved.

💖 Part of the Mindsparx Family

You’ll often find me behind a table at a raffle, chatting at events, or helping out where I can. I might not be wearing a gi, but I’m just as committed to seeing our students thrive — and making sure no one is left behind.

📣 Want to Get Involved?

Got an idea? Want to donate a prize? Keen to volunteer?
I’d love to hear from you!

The more hands we have, the bigger the impact we can make — and the more our children benefit.

🥋 Come say hi. Let’s make something amazing happen — together.
– Ashleigh

Kylie

Juice Bar Leader

🧁 Meet Kylie – Parent Helper, Juice Bar Lead & Baker Extraordinaire at Mindsparx Karate Academy
“It’s the little things — a smile, a chat, a sweet treat — that make big moments even better.”
When you walk into Mindsparx, you’re not just arriving at a karate class — you’re stepping into a community.
And chances are, the first person to greet you with a smile, offer you a refreshing drink, or hand your child a well-earned treat… is me.

Hi, I’m Kylie — proud karate mum, lead of the Mindsparx Juice Bar, and founder of Scrummy Bakes by Kylie. I may not wear a black belt (yet!), but I bring my own kind of magic to the dojo — making everyone feel welcome, supported, and just a little more at home.

💡 What I Bring to the Mindsparx Community
💬 First Point of Contact – Here to Say “Hi!”
Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, I’ll be here to greet you, answer your questions, or just chat while you wait. I know what it’s like to be the “new parent” in the room — and I’m here to make sure you never feel out of place.

🥤 Mindsparx Juice Bar Lead
From healthy post-training smoothies to quick boosts for busy parents, I keep our fridge stocked and our community fuelled. It’s all about making sure our kids (and grown-ups) stay refreshed and energised.

🍪 Baker of Joy – Founder of Scrummy Bakes
Yes, that smell is me! My homemade goodies bring smiles after a hard session, fuel long competition days, and add a special sweetness to grading celebrations. It’s my way of saying, “You’re doing amazing — here’s something just for you.”

🤝 Event Support & Community Builder
You’ll see me at fundraisers, family days, bake sales, and more — always jumping in to help, chat, or cheer someone on. For me, it’s about giving back to the place that’s given my family so much.

💬 Why It Matters
Karate isn’t just about belts and sparring — it’s about community.
It’s about the cup of juice after class… the chat at the counter… the friendly hello on a tough day.

I’m proud to help create the kind of atmosphere where kids feel excited to train, parents feel comfortable and connected, and every visit to Mindsparx feels like coming home.

🧡 More Than Just a Dojo – We’re a Family
I’ve seen the way karate lifts children up — including my own. And I know how much it means to be part of a space where everyone, not just the students, feels included.

If you ever have a question, need a snack, or just want to say hi — I’m here. Always.

📣 Come Say Hello!
Next time you’re in, stop by the Juice Bar, grab a Scrummy Bake, or just share a moment.
Whether you're a new face or part of the furniture — you're part of our family here.

🥋 See you soon at the counter — with something sweet and a smile.
– Kylie

Claire

Reception Team Member

🎈 Meet Claire – Parent Helper & Friendly Face at Mindsparx Karate Academy
“When your child finds a place where they truly thrive… you just want to be part of it.”
Hi, I’m Claire — proud karate mum, small business owner, and one of the friendly faces you’ll meet when you walk into Mindsparx.

I know what it’s like to juggle work, family life, and a busy calendar. But I also know how important it is to show up — especially when it comes to supporting your child’s growth. That’s why I give my time, energy, and heart to this dojo.

💡 What I Bring to the Mindsparx Community
💬 First to Say Hello, Last to Leave Smiling
I’m often one of the first people you'll meet at reception — ready to answer questions, help with admin, or simply welcome you with a chat and a smile.

📋 Admin & Front Desk Support
Working alongside Lynzi, I help keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. Whether it’s sorting timetables, helping with paperwork, or making sure your child’s first day is stress-free — I’m always happy to help.

🎉 Businesswoman & Community Cheerleader
I run two local businesses — Party Supplies Aberdeen (bouncy castle hire) and Claire’s Babysitting Services — but I always make time to give back. Mindsparx has done so much for my daughter, and this is my way of saying thank you.

👩‍👧 A Karate Mum Who Gets It
I’ve seen firsthand the confidence, focus, and joy karate brings. That’s why I love supporting other parents — answering your questions, calming first-class nerves, and helping you feel right at home here.

💬 Why I Do It
This place isn’t just a karate school — it’s a community.
It’s a space where kids grow, parents connect, and families feel like they belong.

And if I can play even a small part in making your experience better, I’m all in.

💖 Part of the Mindsparx Family
Whether I’m behind the desk, helping at an event, or cheering from the sidelines — I’m proud to be part of a team that leads with kindness, care, and heart.

📣 Come Say Hello at the Front Desk!
Got a question? Need to know where to go? Curious about starting karate?
I’m here to help — no pressure, no judgment, just a friendly face and a helping hand.

🥋 Can’t wait to meet you — and welcome you to the Mindsparx family.
– Claire

Kev Snr

Maintenance Manager

🛠️ Meet Kev Snr – Dojo Maintenance & Elite Team Logistics Support at Mindsparx Karate Academy
“You won’t always see me on the mat… but I’m always working to keep it ready.”
Hi, I’m Kev Snr, and while I might not be teaching classes or tying belts, I’m proud to be one of the people helping Mindsparx run smoothly, safely, and with heart — every single day.

As a karate dad to two incredible boys who train here, I’ve seen firsthand how karate can shape kids into focused, respectful, and resilient young people. That’s why I give my time and energy behind the scenes — to support the place that’s given so much to our family.

🔧 What I Do (And Why It Matters)
🛠️ Keeping the Dojo in Top Shape
From fixing equipment to maintaining the space, I make sure the dojo is clean, safe, and ready to go — so every student can focus on training without distractions.

🚌 Supporting the Elite Team on the Road
When our students travel to competitions, I’m there to help with transport, planning, and whatever needs doing to keep things running smoothly. That way, our team can focus on what matters most — representing Mindsparx with confidence and pride.

👨‍👦 Karate Dad, Always Cheering from the Sidelines
As a parent, there’s nothing better than watching your child stand taller, speak louder, and believe in themselves more and more after every session. That’s why I do what I do — to help every student have the same opportunity.

🤝 Part of the Team, Always Lending a Hand
Need something moved? Fixed? Organised? I’m your guy. Whether it’s setting up for gradings or helping out at an event, I’m proud to support the instructors, parents, and kids who make Mindsparx what it is.

💬 Why I’m Proud to Be Part of This Dojo
It’s not just about the karate — it’s about the community.
It’s about showing up, working hard, and making sure our young people have a space that’s built for growth — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too.

I might be behind the scenes, but I care just as deeply about this place as everyone else. And I’ll keep doing whatever I can to help it grow.

📣 Give Kev a Shoutout!
Next time you walk in and the mats look spotless, the gear is ready, or your child steps confidently onto the competition floor — there’s a good chance I’ve helped make that happen.

So give me a wave, say hello, or just know that I’m always working behind the scenes to keep Mindsparx the amazing place it is.

🥋 Proud to support the team — on the mat and off it.
– Kev Snr