Published: August 16, 2023 | Updated: 16th August 2023
AKA Combat Centre in the Dolphin, Poole
Poole residents now have a new way to improve their physical and mental wellbeing, with the opening of a new martial arts centre in The Dolphin.
AKA Combat and its founders Steve Goodhand and Eva Papadopoulou are currently on track to raise £5,000 of funding to expand the facility’s offering which currently includes martial arts and physical training sessions.
Sports England has backed the centre with a donation of £2,500, with Steve and the team currently raising additional funds through crowdfunding.
Steve Goodhand
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.”
Steve has more than 25 years’ experience teaching martial arts across the south, and believes it makes a real difference to a community.
Encouraging young people into kickboxing and similar combat sports is noted to benefit overall wellbeing, offering an opportunity to develop their self-confidence and discipline.
Gareth Sherwood, CEO of YMCA Bournemouth, advised AKA Combat as the business opened and commented: “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.”
Demonstrating its commitment to the area, AKA Combat is currently working with Separated Children Seeking Asylum 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.
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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