I went over to the Academy of Combative Arts in York today for their open house, and had a great time. The academy, located in the Greyhound Bus Station, is home to many MMA fighters, as well as others who are interested in getting (or keeping) in shape or learning self-defense.
Unfortunately, I was late in getting there, so I missed the exhibition that owners Joe Duffey and Frank Nguyen had planned. But I have to say, everyone was accomodating in doing it again, just so I could get a little footage, which will be edited and put up here sometime soon.
In addition to Joe and Frank, head BJJ instructor Daniel Beleza was there, as well as Muay Thai instructor Kham and a guy he's been training with for a couple years now, Kaensak Sor. Pleonjit. Kaensak, who now trains in New Jersey, was champion at both Lumpinee and Ratchadamnoen stadiums, which I'm told are the two biggest and most prestigious stadiums in Thailand. He was in York for a seminar at ACA in August and hopes to do it again soon.
Joe and Frank also talked about a women's self-defense seminar, and eventually, a regular class that they will be having there. Stay tuned to their Web site for more details on that.
The open house was very attended, and a few of the fight team members stopped by too, like Jimmy Chappell, Josh Kessler and Mike Oberdick. Chaz Kline, 12, who told me he's been training for seven months in BJJ with Daniel, is about to get his yellow belt. He's also undefeated in competition at 4-0. Way to go, Chaz, keep up the good work.
To sum up, it's events like this that really point to York County's strong commitment to the martial arts, not just for fighting, but for community, and camaraderie. Thanks to everyone who came out and made the open house a success.
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