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Matthew defies all the odds

Helen Korn
23/11/2004

Martial Arts

PARAPLEGIC Matthew Hadfield defied all odds to earn a white belt at Cobra Kai Jujitsu Club.

The seven-year-old was given a separate syllabus to allow him to gain the grade, despite not being able to walk.

He is the first disabled member of the club, and after his success they are hoping to promote disability in the sport - a cross between karate and ju jitsu.

Black belt and club coach Julie Martin said: "We will teach them how to defend themselves without having to use their legs and show how they can keep fit while promoting upper body strength."

The 60-strong club was delighted to gain a 100 per cent pass rate in the grading of 40 members aged from six to 58.

For Matthew it was a family affair as his mum Elaine and brother George both gained white belts.

Other success stories at the Moss Mill venue in Woodbine Street East included that of Tracey Lynam, the first woman at the club to do Kobudo-Nunchaku.

Jade Martin, aged 10, was the first member of the club to receive a Females in Martial Arts award (FIMA).

This involved learning techniques in self defence especially designed for women, including wrist locks, pressure points and basic manoeuvres to react quickly in difficult situations.

Anyone interested in joining the club can go along to the sessions on Thursdays at 7pm and/or Sundays at 2.30pm at a cost of £2.50 for members and £3 for non-members.

For further information, contact the club on 07790 150810.