Senior Instructor
Sensei Graham at Crook
Graham Tomaszko receiving Wear Valley Male Coach of the year award from Eddie (the eagle) Edwards
Professor Graham Tomaszko 7th Dan Shihan
A Lifelong Dedication to Martial Arts
Martial Arts Journey and Expertise
Professor Tomaszko has devoted more than half a century to the study and practice of martial arts. His journey began 57 years ago, during which time he explored a range of disciplines including Judo, Kung Fu, Karate, and full contact Kick Boxing. After gaining extensive experience in these arts, he chose to specialise in Jujitsu and Kempo-Jitsu, dedicating over 40 years to mastering these styles.
Achievements and Evolution
Throughout his career, Graham attained Dan grades in various martial arts and earned a Black belt in Jujitsu with the World Jujitsu Federation (WJJF). His pursuit of knowledge led him to study with different Ryus, or schools, ultimately achieving his Dan grade in Kempo-Jitsu. However, following a shoulder injury, Graham recognised a common challenge within martial arts: many styles are shaped by the senior instructor’s physical attributes and preferences, which may not suit every student, especially those with specific limitations.
Founding Mohan Martial Arts
To address this issue, Graham founded Mohan, a term meaning “Ideal”, with the objective of enabling individuals to realise their full potential, regardless of their abilities. His approach focuses on personal development and inclusivity, ensuring that martial arts training can be tailored to suit the unique needs of each practitioner.
International Experience and Leadership
Graham’s commitment to martial arts took him to both Japan and China, where he visited and experienced various organisations. He later became the Chairman of the Independent Unarmed Combat Association and established Mohan Martial Arts, both of which are registered with NAKMAS. These organisations share a common goal: empowering individuals to achieve their best through martial arts.
Recognition and Community Impact
Graham’s dedication has been recognised at the community level. He was honoured as Male Community Coach of the Year for 2007/8 by Wear Valley District Council and Durham County Council, reflecting his positive influence and contribution to martial arts locally.
Mohan Martial Arts: Our Ethos
Competition Policy
At Mohan Martial Arts, students in the UK do not participate in competitions. This approach is rooted in our core philosophy that martial art is not a sport. We believe that martial arts should not be measured by medals or trophies.
Our Philosophy
Instead, we view martial art as a discipline. Our focus is on enabling each student to become the best version of themselves, emphasising personal development over external recognition.
Promoting Kalaripayattu in India
In December 2024, Graham visited The Great Kathakali Centre in Fort Kochi, Cochin, India, where he observed the traditional art of Kalaripayattu. During his visit, he learned from senior practitioners that there was no longer a local club for Kalaripayattu, leaving students without a venue for training and placing the art at risk of fading in the area.
Revitalising Kalaripayattu in Fort Kochi
On returning to the UK, Mohan Martial Arts raised funds to support venue hire and equipment purchase for the students in Cochin. In April 2025, Professor Tomaszko returned to the Kathakali Centre in Cochin and established Mohan Martial Arts, successfully attracting 30 new students. The club continues to flourish, welcoming new members and helping to ensure that Kalaripayattu remains vibrant in Fort Kochi. Graham continues to visit the centre helping the Instructors and students in thier focus to achieve and improve.