Teens take to the mat in martial arts courses (From Your Local Guardian)

Teens take to the mat in martial arts courses in Wimbledon

8:00am Saturday 18th August 2012 in Wimbledon

Twenty-four young people had the chance to take part in a seven-week martial arts course thanks to Merton police officers volunteering their time.

TKO was set up by Merton police officers with the aim of engaging with young people to teach them about martial arts and enhance their levels of fitness and discipline.

Successful members were awarded certificates at a presentation evening on July 5 attended by Olympic judo silver medallist Ray Stevens, who runs a fitness club in Merton.

He said: “The TKO project is another way that Ray Stevens Fitness Club can contribute to the activities taking place in Merton and help police officers offer a way away from crime for youngsters.”

Sergeant Steven Murfin, TKO Merton organiser, said: “I think the TKO project is a great way for police officers to mix with youngsters and allow officers to give something back to the area and build closer links with alienated community groups.”

The course gave youngsters an introduction to karate, boxing, kickboxing, taekwondo, judo and Brazilian jiu jitsu.

Twenty new students will join the next project later this year.

---

Got a story for us? Call 020 8722 6333, tweet @WimbledonNews or email: newsdesk@wimbledonguardian.co.uk.