24/08/2026
I’m incredibly proud of my wife, Anne. For over two decades she’s been the quiet strength behind so much of what we’ve built together in World Ju-Jitsu and at The Dojo. Her dedication, organisational skill, and genuine care for people have made a lasting difference.
Anne Toney has played a major role within World Ju-Jitsu in Ireland, since 2001, & works closely with head quarters in Italy to co-ordinate WJJF-WJJKO 1976 matters.
Background and The Dojo
Based in Ballymena, in the North of Ireland, Anne Toney co-manages The Dojo, the headquarters for WJJF Ireland. This martial arts and fitness centre serves as the central hub for training, events, and organisational activities.
From this base, she and her husband, (So-shin David Toney) co-founded the Dojo Juniors, a children’s charity to give back to their local community, promoting the personal development aspect of martial arts. With a background in Youth & Community work, Anne was well positioned to take on the role of Trustee, and continues to play an active role in the Dojo’s day-to-day operations.
Her previous training in an Advertising and Graphics Bureau means she is responsible for many promotional campaigns for the Federation.
In the early years, Anne acted as Registrar for the Governing Body in N. Ireland. During this time, she obtained funding for Coaching Programmes & First Aid courses from Sports Council. She also secured a large grant towards funding the first ever Federation Congress in Ireland. Soke Clark’s speech, at this event, credited Anne as being the reason WJJF had brought the Congress to Ireland.
Administrative leadership, event support and community building:
Co-organiser for the Conventions/ Congresses held in Ireland, and supports grading events, seminars, fundraising events and celebrations.
Regularly participates in international conventions, for example Spain, Israel and Italy.
Advocacy and social initiatives:
In 2020 - represented The Dojo in signing the White Ribbon Charter, committing to action against violence against women.
Sits on the Board for the international committee, ‘Females in Martial Arts’, which aims to encourage equality of opportunity.
Advocates for inclusivity of practitioners of varying abilities.
While So-shin David Toney receives much of the spotlight for technical development and international representation, Anne Toney is widely appreciated as the steady, behind-the-scenes (and sometimes front-and-centre) supporter who helps keep the organisation in Ireland running smoothly.
Her long-term dedication to the Federation has helped strengthen its presence in Ireland and its connections worldwide.
(*Pictured here with mentor & good friend Professor Helen Travis, Director of Coaching, GB)
