Our Committee​
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This is the committee of 2018/19
The ​committee is responsible for the smooth running of the club - basically anything that the instructors are not responsible for, from finances, to equipment, to socials, and much more!
From left to right: Shu Hao, Kira Nelms, Alex Batchelor, Nuha Sofiah, Bianca ‘Binky’ Chan, Charline Tessereau (also not pictured, Tadas Pyragius)
President – Alex Batchelor
About me: When I joined Wing Chun two years ago I didn’t know anyone at the club and I’d never done martial arts before. Now I have a great group of friends, can kick butt a lot better than I ever thought I’d be able to and I’m president so I must be doing something right 😛
Honestly this is the best society I’ve joined while at Uni and I’ve been at Nottingham for 5 years. You couldn’t find a friendlier bunch of people, even if we do spend a lot of our time punching each other.
Degree: 2nd year PhD in Biology
Role: Has overall responsibility for the society, must chair meetings and organise the committee. They are the main link between the society and the SU.
General secretary – Nuha Sofiah
About me: All I want is to learn self-defence without having an intense atmosphere. So I joined Wing Chun and found that it suits me well. This is my second year in this club and I very much enjoyed it!
Degree: 3rd year BSc Nutrition
Role: Responsible for the general administration, dealing with records, meeting minutes, and membership matters. They also act as Union liaison and shall be the Returning Officer for the elections.
Treasurer – Charline Tessereau
About me: I discovered Wing Chun randomly and I must admit this has been a great experience. As my first contact with any sort of martial art, that offers me a completely new way of understanding my body through its energies and mechanical organisation. I love the subtleties of the flowy motions that we try to achieve, and the instructors of the club provide a really clear concise and pictured understanding of the practice that is also really appreciated. I am grateful that it also contributed to body and mind awareness that I am sure is a great tool to have in life in general. I could go on about the club forever, but just come and join us to discover yourself! 🙂
Degree: 2nd year PhD in Mathematical Neuroscience
Role: Keeps records of all transactions and is responsible for keeping the accounts. They deal with the club income and expenditure, including equipment, coaching costs, socials etc.
Equipment officer - Tadas Pyragius
About me: I've never tried any martial arts before so was curious to see what it's like. Before, I was mainly doing triathlons and climbing as hobbies which I still enjoy doing. The appeal of Wing Chun to me is down to its very methodical way of understanding body mechanics and how it can be used to your advantage. We have incredible instructors who create a very motivating and stimulating learning environment which to me makes every lesson very exciting as there is always something new and interesting to learn. It's been over two years since I've been with this club and it has been great!
Degree: 3rd year PhD in Physics
Role: In charge of buying, selling, maintaining, and organising club equipment and kit.
Social secretaries:
Bianca ‘Binky’ Chan
About me: Despite getting battered and whacked after each session, I find myself coming back to Wing Chun. What I like about this martial art is not just its practicalities but also the iconic culture and history - Bruce Lee and Ip Man of course. The instructors are fantastic but also brutal, in a loving way. Have a pint with me after training!
Degree: 4th year MPharm
Kira Nelms
About me: I joined Wing Chun fairly recently during refreshers. I have done martial arts for 9 years and wanted to try something new, and Wing Chun is great fun so I stayed. It’s different from anything I’ve done before but is still a fantastic club.
Degree: 1st year Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine
Shu Hao
About me: I joined the club last year because I want to learn a close combat style martial art. I stayed because of the friendly and helpful atmosphere. Our instructors are incredible and creative. While teaching the main syllabus, they also teach us accordingly to our own fighting style. Outside Wing Chun, I enjoy cycling, movies and delicious food. The first lesson for new member is free! See you there!
Degree: 4th year MPharm
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Role: Plans, organises and executes socials. Responsible for the publicity of the social events and make necessary arrangements, as well as making sure our members feel accepted and welcome. Keeps social media and websites up to date. Also goes to mooch after training.