By James Bovington
Mike Tobin, longtime martial arts coach and owner of Tobin’s Gym in Armley, says he is “proud and delighted” at receiving a Special Contribution Award at this year’s Leeds Sports Awards.
The honour, presented by the Lord Mayor and decided by a panel of judges, recognises Mike’s decades of work supporting people of all ages across the community.
This Special Contribution Award celebrates the huge impact Mike has made on the Martial Arts community here in Leeds for over 30 years, inspiring people of all ages and backgrounds, while at the same time prioritising their well-being.
“I love what I do, and I’ve never sought personal recognition,” said Mike. “But I’m delighted to accept this award on behalf of the gym and everyone who benefits from training with us. This has put a smile on lots of faces — so it’s put a smile on mine. I couldn’t have done this without the support I have week in, week out from many people.”
Mike opened his gym in 1997, but his journey began much earlier. Growing up in East End Park, Mike admits he wasn’t a natural athlete. “I was always the last to be picked for football,” he laughed. “I used to knock about with mates at the Market District Boys Club. We even started a band that later became The Bridewell Taxis — but I was tone deaf, so my time with them didn’t last long.”
The bass player Scotty introduced Mike to a kickboxing gym, and everything changed. Mike fell in love with the sport, whilst The Bridewell Taxis went on to support major bands including the Inspiral Carpets, Happy Mondays and The Stone Roses. “But I’d found my true calling on the mats, eventually competing in 66 fights across Muay Thai, Kickboxing and K1 before starting teaching in 1991.”
Mike has now spent three decades in West Leeds, where he’s become a familiar and trusted figure. “I’ve observed how the area’s changed. It’s become more diverse, more transient, and sometimes less connected. Our gym and others like it across the city play a vital role in bringing people together. Combat sports lessen division and unite diversity. Everyone encourages each other to achieve their goals regardless of background.”
After being made redundant from his job as a production manager in the gas and oil industry, Mike’s devoted himself full-time to the gym. “The timing was a blessing. People come here with pent-up aggression, anxiety, or personal struggles. Training helps them release that, build friendships, and grow in confidence.”
Mike’s work extends far beyond Armley. “I’ve supported young people in Sheffield through the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust, helping them develop resilience and leadership skills. He’s also worked with teenagers in care in Hartlepool.
Closer to home, Mike has been mentoring a group of teenage boys described as “disenfranchised youth on the periphery of crime.” For Mike, “these lads were just young people needing direction and someone to believe in them. The group has since flourished as they’ve gained confidence through competing in martial arts. At Christmas most took part in charity work such as wrapping gifts for single parents and their children.”
Mike also runs a free Friday class for the Armley Men’s Group, supporting men facing a range of life challenges. “The banter afterwards is brilliant,” he said. “They also meet up for a kickabout in Armley Park. I don’t join them as I still wouldn’t get picked.”
On Saturdays, Mike’s wellbeing boxercise class brings together people with physical disabilities and mental health challenges, creating a supportive space where everyone is welcome.
Wortley’s Joe Skirrow, 25, has trained with Mike for many years.
“He’s a highly respected, inspiring person willing to help anyone and especially including those less fortunate or with disabilities. Everyone is welcome at every level as Mike wants to assist each person get into the best shape mentally and physically. Tobin’s Gym is welcoming and feels more like a family place than just a gym.
“There’s a great set of lads all working hard and it’s obvious that the discipline Mike instils pays off. My dad’s good friends with Mike and got me into this as a kid. I’ve never looked back and I’m happy and proud to be involved with this gym.”
With the award boosting visibility and community support, Mike hopes to expand Tobin’s Gym into a full-time wellbeing centre for West Leeds.
“Our vision is to create something permanent. A place where people from all backgrounds come together, train, and feel part of the community. I’m hoping to arrange funding or sponsorship to create more opportunities for the Community.”
- For information about classes or one-to-one training or if interested in helping Tobin’s Gym develop its plans, contact Mike Tobin on 07970 615425 or via Instagram @tobinsgymltd.
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