Our Story
From a single vision to a nationally recognised body representing thousands of taekwondo practitioners across the UK.
How it all started
Founder
Master John McNally
International TKD Council
john.mcnally@international-taekwondo-council.com07773 376633
Taekwondo Council UK was born from the vision of Master John McNally and Grand Master Paul Liversidge — two passionate taekwondo practitioners who believed that every school, regardless of lineage or style, deserved equal representation and a united voice. Master McNally served as Chair and then President until 2025, then had no involvement with TCUK until being voted in by the Board as International Consultant in 2026. He remains Chair of ITC, an International Guiding Body; TCUK is the National Governing Body for Taekwon-Do in the UK.
The Council consists of directors from their respective schools, groups, or associations — independent in terms of Taekwon-Do lineage and style, each with their own celebrated journey and history.
Our strength is our diversity and open-mindedness; everyone retains their identity, regardless of lineage; you have a place and, more importantly, a voice!
Our Timeline
2011 (ITC)
ITC was founded by Master John McNally alongside Grandmaster Liversidge, creating an independent, member-focused structure for Taekwon-Do in the UK.
2012 (ITC)
The first Instructors Course established a recognised pathway for coach education and workforce development.
2014 (ITC)
The first Umpire and Referee course strengthened standards in officiating and competition delivery.
2015 (ITC)
The first ITC competition increased participation opportunities and cross-group engagement.
2016 (ITC)
Membership exceeded 1,000, demonstrating sustained national growth.
2017 (ITC)
The first Open Black Belt Grading provided quality assurance and technical support for independent schools.
2018 (ITC)
ITC gained formal UK recognition through Companies House registration.
The Southern Open expanded regional access to national events.
2020 (TCUK)
TCUK was formed, registered with Companies House, to lead national governance and strategic development.
Enhanced safeguarding systems were introduced, including DBS verification and adoption of NSPCC guidance, alongside a dedicated Events Co-ordinator role.
2021 (TCUK)
The TCUK National Squad launched.
Master Clive Harrison was awarded the title of Grandmaster.
2022 (TCUK)
A Licensing Officer role was introduced.
Five national competitions were delivered, including the first Welsh Open.
2023 (TCUK)
Leanne Lolley was appointed Vice-Chair.
The first TCUK Scottish Open increased Home Nation engagement.
2024 (TCUK)
Membership surpassed 10,000.
Free SEND inclusion training was made available to all instructors.
2025 (TCUK)
Founder Master John McNally, having served as Chair and then President, stepped down. In June, Leanne Lolley was elected CEO and a new Board was formed, with 25% of positions held by truly independent directors.
Partnerships were established with UK Coaching and BMABA.
TCUK joined the NWG Network and the Children's Rights Alliance for England, and registered as Disability Confident Committed.
2026 (so far)
TCUK adopted its own Articles of Association, confirming its status as a fully independent National Governing Body.
The TCUK-ITC Partnership Framework was approved, confirming TCUK's sole authority over governance, safeguarding, and regulatory matters, with ITC's role limited to international collaboration. As part of this process, the Board appointed Master John McNally as International Consultant, a role carrying no governance authority.
Kyle Daley was appointed Independent Chairperson.
A new Instructor Development & Qualifications Pathway launched, incorporating BMABA courses (BMABA is a recognised CIMSPA Training Provider Partner). TCUK also achieved NGB clearance under the Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts.
Dan Grade Recognition went live, alongside a new Safeguarding sub-committee.
Be part of shaping the future of Taekwondo in the UK.
I joined the ITC originally in 2019 and have had the pleasure of watching it grow into what is now the TCUK. I have had nothing but support and encouragement. At a time where I was learning how to be a completely new and independent association, TCUK offered me a massive life line, especially for policies and ensuring I had all the paperwork necessary in place. They are easy to contact and talk to about any issues or problems and always go the extra mile.
I am very proud to say I am a member of the TCUK and recognise them as our NGB.
Master Claire Crosbie
