Students from Normanton martial arts school called up to represent England
Five students from a Normanton martial arts club will represent their country on the international stage.
The Viper Martial Arts Academy students, based on Wakefield Road, will compete in tournaments across the UK.
They have also received invites to tournaments in Italy and Romania next year.
Instructor Abbie Quinn: “This remarkable accomplishment is a testament not only to their dedication and skill, but also to the collective effort of our instructors and their amazing families who have supported them every step of the way. This will be the first of many.”
The students are Alec Hague, Natalie Duffy, Noah O’Hara, Eliza Hunter and Lana Appleyard.
Alec recently won an Area Kickboxing iMac title and will have an English title fight next year.
Fellow instructor Gareth Quinn said: “There is so much I could say about these guys and the rest of the academy – it’s a pleasure to come to work and work with all of these kids and adults.
"When all their hard work pays off it’s a fantastic moment and incredibly exciting to wonder where these guys can go and how they can inspire other students in the academy.”
In 2023 the acdemy split from its franchise and rebranded as Viper Martial Arts Academy.
Mr Quinn said one of the main reasons was to create more opportunities for students.
Since then the school has competed on the open circuit, moved into tougher categories and won numerous medals.
In 2023 Mr Quinn announced a series of free “verbal jiu-jitsu” classes, alongside more traditional physical self defence.
He offered examples of how a quick, unexpected and non-violent response can avoid a fight or other trouble kicking off.
He suggested if someone asks “What you looking at?” a response could be “Sorry. Not had a good day, my dog just died.”
“What’s your problem?” could be met with “I’ve just got fired! I’m having a terrible day.”
At the time, Mr Quinn said: “Martial arts is not just about kicking and punching, it’s about self development, building confidence and improving fitness - I believe it can change lives and that’s what I’ve always aspired to do for my students."