There’s really only one important piece of news this week, and that’s Kirsty and Liam have become our first ever black belts!!!
These two youngsters came to me nearly four years ago, back in Scoil Carmel, when Clever Little Monkeys was one year old, and being split into the two age groups. Kirsty’s always had somewhat of an, errr, streak to her and became a leader in the monkeys classes, helping younger children out by showing them the ropes and being a demo girl for new games and techniques.
She’s been a dogged competitor, and stuck it out through the highs and lows of her impressive career in Submission Wrestling (she’s the most decorated submission wrestler in the country). During her grading, Kirsty showed her brilliant technical ability in getting her guard back on tougher opponents and even hitting a sweet takedown on Danny.
Liam’s the very definition of club spirit and heart. And seems to know when to step it up. I’ve always thought Liam would make a good coach, and he even got a chance to prove himself a few week’s ago, when he took the Monkeys class on a Saturday.
Liam’s also been the first Agoge ever to catch an adult in a submission, catching big Adam in a heart attack choke during his purple belt grading. And, not to let his silver medal from the recent NSC go to his head, Liam remained focused and worked hard, as ever, throughout his black belt test.
Of course, it would be no fun without a grudge match. I can’t help but think these guys took it a bit serious though…
Kirsty vs Liam - The Grudge Match!
Afterwards, we were lucky to catch a few words with the new black belts.
Congratulations again guys! You’ve done yourselves and the club very proud. Wonderful achievement!!!