A LOCAL martial arts club continues to thrive even in its earliest stages of competition.
NMA Jiu Jitsu Club, which is based in Rudheath, travelled to Alsager to face-off against a rival club in what was only their second ever competitive outing.
Nevertheless, all seven of the students competing under the Shurlach Chapel-based club’s banner - Isla Jones, Daniel Rathbone, Erica Morley, Eden Cooper, Thomas Sweeney, Ella Booth and Leah Booth - earned medals and trophies for their efforts
“They were absolutely fantastic,” said the club’s chief sensei Bob Brown, who is supported at the club by fellow senseis Ben O'Neill and Jake Pearson.
“Some of them have never competed in a competition before but their confidence was there to see.
“Jiu jitsu teaches the children respect and discipline which I believe to be very important.”
Hayley Jones, a parent of one of the children and also a member of the club, added: “They have all come away with so many medals and trophies! I am so proud of them all on what was a great day for the club.”
“I was trained by the same instructor as my daughter when I was seven. He trained all of my family from my brother to my mum and dad.
“Now his two grandsons are also senseis – it is just lovely to see.”
Following the COVID pandemic, the club struggled with numbers but is now thriving at their current home, with talk of another training night being put on due to demand.
The club is a mix of both children and adults, with some starting at the age of just four.
Gradings take place every six months, with members assessed on how they demonstrate technical skill and attitude followed by a ceremony to award belts.
Hayley added: “Jiu jitsu just gives you that confidence. It gives you self-defence.
“If children at the club are getting bullied, the sensei will do a talk at the end of a session to really help the children.
“If children are ever having a hard time in school or just in general, they can come here.
“There is a real sense of community at the club. The children are so positive and are always encouraging each other.
“It helps with general fitness too. When I started going again I couldn’t walk! It uses every single muscle in your body and is just a great way to keep in shape.”
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