Tebbutt’s Academy held their fifth grading for junior belts recently.

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This was a long-awaited grading, as this was the first time in two years that students could spar with each other under necessary Covid protocols.

“The students arrived early for their grading. They were nervous and eager, as they knew the gradings at Tebbutts are the toughest in town,” said Ismail Pandor from Tebbutts Academy.

Students were given a 10-minute break after the stretch and warm-up to prepare themselves for the grading drills. They were divided into two groups, adults and juniors. The fitness drills began with the juniors, each group being pushed to their utmost physical threshold.

“Every student gave it their all and never gave up.”

“This was a true testament of their months of hard work, training and expert guidance from kancho Alex and his team,” said Pandor.

The testing followed after the fitness drill. The students had to display their skills in their prescribed katas and specialist weapon.

The main event of the day was sparring. Despite their fearless and relentless conduct during the sparring, there was no shortage of great respect, sportsmanship within the walls of the dojo.

“The zeal and passion the students displayed throughout their testing were nothing short of impressive. I’m very proud of my students.

“They’ve worked extremely hard. They were at the dojo daily, showing high levels of discipline and dedication.”
He said every student passed the grading.

“A big thanks to the parents who make the time to bring their children to training and motivate them.

“The year ahead looks promising. I know we are going to see future champions coming out of our dojo,” said kancho Alex Tebbutt.