RAPTORS Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in Jeffreys Bay - the school that teaches people of all ages the art of self-defence and the discipline of fighting - celebrates their first birthday this month.
Raptors opened its doors on August 15, a long-time dream coming true for MMA instructor Buks Coetzee and his son, Marco. It is their goal to share their passion for mixed martial arts with others.
They have grown from 6 students to 55 active students.
Apart from kick boxing, karate and wea-pon training for the more skilled students, they also offer Jiu Jitsu.
Then there is also the power breaking - a.k.a. the breaking of tiles.
But the students learn much more, says Coetzee, who has a passion for children.
“They learn focus, stress release, self-discipline and develop friendships.
“It is not something we do to get rich. It is almost a community service. We want to help people discover their own weaknesses and to help them overcome and succeed.
“At Raptors we teach students lessons that can be used in other life challenges as well.”
Students from Raptors excelled at the recent EP Classics, bringing home a total of 133 medals: 68 gold, 44 silver and 21 bronze.
They will compete at the SA Classics later this year.
Raptors, situated at the Jeffreys Bay Comprehensive High School, offers classes for all ages and members of the community, and combines various strength, fitness, flexibility, and self-defence techniques to accommodate the different needs of each student.
“We thank all our students, loyal supporters and Kouga Sport Council for their loyal support the past year,” says Coetzee.
For more information, contact Coetzee at 076 976 1917.