Fighting for experience

MATT WILLIAMS

Owner, Bones MMA

For many young martial artists, the first step into competition does not happen under bright lights or inside crowded arenas. Instead, it happens on community mats, surrounded by coaches, families and teammates.

That environment is what organisers are aiming to create through the Geelong Coastal Classic part of the National Sport Karate Australia tournament circuit, which is bringing athletes from across Victoria to the Geelong Sports Hub.

The event showcases a range of mat sports including point karate, grappling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and other controlled combat disciplines.

While combat sports are often associated with high-pressure fight nights, grassroots mat sports tournaments are designed to offer a more controlled and accessible introduction to competition, particularly for young people.

Athletes compete in structured divisions based on age, weight and experience, with rules focused on safety, control and technical development.

The atmosphere is typically closer to a community sports carnival than a professional fight event.

Tournament director Jen Marsham, who runs Total Martial Arts Academy in Drysdale, said the tournament was intentionally designed to give athletes a positive first experience in competition.

“It’s simple but fun and gives valuable early experience,” she said.

A fifth dan black belt, Marsham established the Australian academy in 2011 after previously teaching in the United Kingdom.

Her background includes national and world championship titles and she has also travelled to the United States as an Australian team coach through the National Sport Karate Australia system.

Marsham has directed the Geelong Coastal Classic for the past eight years and is encouraging more local gyms and martial arts clubs across Geelong and the Surf Coast to become involved.

“Geelong is the second biggest city in Victoria. I’m hosting it here because I’m local and I love this place,” she said. “And with more people living regionally, there’s a demand.”

Organisers are also aiming to reduce barriers to entry for first-time competitors, with refunds offered to participants who do not receive an appropriate matchup within their division or bracket.

Importantly, the event also creates pathways for regional athletes.

This year’s tournament will act as a qualifier for the Victorian State Titles in Melbourne on 13 September, before competitors potentially progress to the national championships at Sydney Olympic Park in New South Wales on 22 November.

Regional athletes often face barriers accessing larger sporting ecosystems concentrated in Melbourne and other capital cities.

Events held closer to home allow young martial artists to gain experience, build confidence and stay engaged in sport long term.

The Geelong Classic is on 24 May at the Geelong Sports Hub.