Wing Chun Walsall

This is a very special post - please take some time to read, as it may be lengthy.

Right at the top, I want to get this out of the way as I don't like talking about myself, but I very thankful to my Sifu who saw it fit to Award me my 3rd Degree Black-sash. Anyone who knows me, knows I've been after this for years and whilst I still have a lifetime of learning left to do and for as long as my body will let me, I will keep on learning.

Next, a massive well done to Glen, who passed his level 5 certificate. He didn't let any of the spring-chickens slow him down and matched with them beat for beat, never letting age be anything but a number. What a fantastic show. He passed, with Distinction.

Next, I cannot say how proud I am as there aren't enough words for such things.

I started my Martial Arts school 15 years ago. I started my training under the excellent teachings of Sifu Alpine (Who now teaches at Trinity Kung Fu Schools if you're interested in learning with him!) some 25 years ago.

A Black Sash in our school truly is a case of dedication, blood, sweat and tears - literally. We're not a school that sells you on the idea of "black sash in 1 year", our syllabus is arguably one of the biggest there is - with Wing Chun, Escrima, Filipino, Western Arts, 5 Animals and more all rolled in to one, there is not only so much to remember - but to master. You need to be able to do way, way more than just show us a list of moves in order. You need to be able to fight, you need to be able to adapt, you need to be able to take the ancient arts and bring them in to the new world, and then on top of that, you need to "fight" 18 opponents back to back, in 9 x 3 minutes rounds with only 60 seconds rest between rounds.

I use the word fight, because although it is sparing - it's done at around 70-80% power, people get hurt, injured and we've had multiple people lose their lunch over the years, myself included.

With that being said, it is with a literal tear in my eye and a huge amount of pride beyond the scope of the English language, that I am proud to award both Matt and Kenny with their Black Sash in the 1st Degree.

They both put on a phenomenal performance and most importantly, after a days full grading, they didn't falter, their spirit remained high and they absolutely fought like true champions.

A huge well done to Matt and Kenny - now the real journey begins.

I didn't take many photos because we had so much to do, but...

Today is a monumental day in the making. Not one but two students going for their black sash.

Stay calm, stay focused. You've got this.

Good luck to Matt and Kenny.

We also have Glenn, going for his level 5, which is a very difficult grade to get. You'll smash it!

Good luck!!!!

On the 3rd we held one of our four open days a year. This group was absolutely amazing and they showed some serious mettle, especially toward the end of the day when we did pyramids!

If you're thinking of joining, the next open day is on 02/08/2026.

Minimum age is 16+

Register Early to avoid disappointment - we don't allow walk ins.

https://wingchunwalsall.uk/index.php/openday

Please remember - a lot of the people in this photos are literally doing their first ever training, any negativity will result in an instant ban.

15 years.

For fifteen years I've been teaching martial arts. Many students have come and gone. It's not always been highs, we've trained through damp and mold, I've turned up to empty rooms, I've had to close the class due to pandemics, we've had students and their family take their final walk into the afterlife through illness and age.

But.

Everything about this class gives me strength, it keeps my mind and body active, I've met some of the most amazing people you'll ever know. I've won fights, lost fights, had my students win fights, had to pick my students back up off the mat, dust them off and say try again, and I've had my students pick me up off the mat and say "it's not over yet."

To everyone, new, old, yet to join, and to those who've left their earthly body behind

Thank you from Wing Chun Walsall.

As a ONE OFF special, you can bring kids to the 15th anniversary class. But all parents must stay with their kids, we are not a daycare.

A legend in the martial arts scene, Chuck Norris has completed his mission here on earth and has gone to conquer the Kwoons and Dojos in the heavens.

Humour aside, Chuck Norris had 5 black belts that I'm aware of and was a huge influence in helping popularise martial arts here in the west for the modern audience.

The martial arts world is truly a little bit darker on this day, Rest in Piece, Chuck Norris

Matt and Kenny both practicing for their black sash by practicing their teaching techniques.

I am so proud of this lot. 9 weeks additional training to get ready for the Interclub tomorrow! Good luck to everyone, you've worked hard for this - remember. **Everyone** who steps on a mat is a winner. See you all bright and early tomorrow.

**PLEASE DO A FINAL BAG CHECK TONIGHT**
Gumshield, Shinguards, Groinguard, Boxing Gloves, Rashguard/School t-shirt, Handwraps, Water, Snacks, Towel.