Martial arts centre opens in Poole shopping centre

AKA Combat has had support from Sport England to set up

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 29th Aug 2023

A new martial arts centre has opened in Poole's Dolphin shopping centre, with the aim of helping the community to 'positively engage in improving their physical and mental well-being'.

AKA Combat founders, Steve Goodhand and Eva Papadopoulou, are on track to raise £5,000 to expand the facilities, which at present includes martial arts and physical training sessions.

The new centre is backed by Sports England, with a donation of £2,500 pledged to further enhance the facilities at AKA Combat.

The martial arts centre's had support from Sport England and an ongoing crowdfunder to expand facilities

Steve said:

“We offer high-quality martial arts training and a comprehensive fitness space that can be enjoyed and utilised by anyone in our community. I have first-hand experience of how important physical activity is for a person’s wellbeing and enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds to better their lives through sport. We are hopeful that we can engage young people in Poole specifically, offering them a positive outlet and space where they can feel included and supported.

“With the funding via Crowdfunder and Sports England we will be able to continue to improve lives in the community. We will be looking to purchase additional high-quality training equipment, expand the training we are able to offer, and refine the training environment itself.”

Kickboxing and karate lessons are being brought to Poole's shopping area, by AKA Combat

Gareth Sherwood, CEO of YMCA Bournemouth, advised AKA Combat as the business opened and said:

“The value of accessible, affordable community fitness spaces cannot be overstated. For young people especially, having an outlet and an inclusive space where they can feel comfortable and develop skills is really important. Physical training can work as a method for channelling emotions, and this is key to minimising the impact of antisocial behaviour in the community.”

The centre is currently working with Separated Children Seeking Asylum charity in Bournemouth, to offer free access to the training and equipment for an individual they are supporting in the area.

The business intends to continue providing scholarships and subsidies to those in the community who need it most.

The family behind AKA Combat in Poole

John Grinnell, Centre Manager of The Dolphin, said:

“The community sits at the heart of our vision of The Dolphin. AKA Combat is exactly the kind of people-focused, enriching organisation we want to be welcoming to Poole. Steve and Eva have done a fantastic job of bringing their knowledge and experience into The Dolphin, and we are sure AKA Combat will prove to be a popular and positive presence in Poole.”

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