By James Bovington
Peyton Silverblade and teammate Esmay Hayes attended the Combat Sports Initiative (CSI) training held at Bramley’s Bad Company gym where they and 15 other attendees train.
In all 70 children aged 16 and younger enjoyed the session jointly funded by the Royal Navy and the Royal Marines.
“Another brilliant experience for Peyton,” said mother Helen Duckworth. “He loved every minute of it — from the atmosphere and excitement to watching the incredible talent on display.
“It’s always great seeing how much this nine-year-old enjoys being around the sport and soaking it all in. CSI arranged a fantastic event that he and all the others found exhilarating!”
Coach Tarik Bilgic, 39, has 20 years’ experience in competitive Brazilian jiu-jitsu. “I’m head coach for the Royal Marines BJJ team and run my own academy Urso Jiu Jitsu in Basingstoke.
“I jumped at the opportunity to coach the grappling element of CSI. I loved meeting the participants, the organisers and fellow coaches. It’s motivating to see families attending the session together with their children and learning new skills.”
Alfie Rowley recently signed up as a junior CSI coach via the Royal Navy Muay Thai group.
He said: “I chose to get involved during periods of leave as I believe in everything CSI stands for.
“The project aims to help young people develop strong core values in life generally as well as in sport. Values that align with the Royal Navy ethos stressing the principles of Courage, Commitment, Discipline, Respect, Integrity and Loyalty.
“So far, I’ve done just the one in Leeds which offered a combination of fitness activities, basic Muay Thai and an introduction to BJJ grappling and which ended with a series of team games. All participants were encouraged to challenge themselves while supporting others.”
Esmay is 12 and has attended all three CSI sessions at Bad Company where she’s trained since 2019. Last year she received a sponsorship from CSI becoming part of the Combat Sistersprogramme designed to assist girls in combat sports.
Mum, Emma Hays, said: “She’s improved her confidence working alongside like-minded female fighters and competing on major shows such as Hitman and Sandee. Her role model is Bad Company professional fighter Amber Kitchen.”
To train with Peyton and Esmay, contact coach Lisa Houghton-Smith at lisabadco@gmail.com or text 07885 270267.
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