Local martial artists’ exploits are highlighted at belt assessments

The Dojo, Ballymena recently hosted The World Ju Jitsu Federation Ireland’s Bi-yearly Black belt Assessments.

Students from all over Ireland came together for a day long Assessment of their skills.

Shihan David Toney with successful students, who also volunteer at the centre, Ryan Avery, Michael 'Mikey' Graham and examiner Master Liam Magill.

placeholder image — Shihan David Toney with successful students, who also volunteer at the centre, Ryan Avery, Michael 'Mikey' Graham and examiner Master Liam Magill.

Three members of the Dojo’s coaching team stood out as highly motivated and technically excellent - Ryan Avery, Ryan McClean and Michael Graham.

All three have spent the last year perfecting their martial art skills, specifically undergoing intensive training during the last six months, to improve and perfect their techniques, fitness, power, flexibility, accuracy and stamina, all of which culminated in the assessments.

This was no small achievement for the individuals concerned and also for the Club.

David Toney, their senior instructor said: “They have all shown outstanding determination and pushed themselves beyond their normal limits - they all passed with flying colours and truly deserve their new grade.”

More than 40 students from around Ireland also successfully passed their Black belt grading on the day.