ABOUT ME

Over 32 years ago, a young skinny boy by the name of Mark Ifill, walked into a dojo for the very first time. Little did he know then that by doing so, how the experience would totally change his life.

14 years old and not a natural athlete, I found most sports challenging. When taking part in team events at school, I was always the last one to be picked. Martial arts training initially was to prove no different. In fact looking back I fondly remember my Sensei telling me on the day I passed my black belt, that I had gone from being one of his worst students to one of his best!

In the early days, I was inspired by the likes of Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris. I would sit at home and watch their movies in awe of their abilities. In fact I still get a buzz even now when I look back at these and other Martial Art icons. However today my inspiration comes from a totally different direction, my students! I am truly privileged to have some extremely dedicated students. The hard work they put into each class, the discipline and focus is commendable. Especially when you hear so much negativity about children today (rightly or wrongly), it is heart warming to be in a position to see and say otherwise.

It might sound cliche but never lose faith in the kids of today, as they may go on to be the champions and leaders of tomorrow.

On the other end of the scale, I have students older than myself that are equaly amazing. I strongly believe that people regardless of age or gender, should be given the opportunity to get involved and enjoy the many benefits that the Martial Arts provide.

Over 10 years ago when I first founded MISOMA, I wanted to make sure that I created a system that not only kept traditional Martial Art values, but also reflected modern training concepts with the flexibility to evolve. A system open to everyone regardless of whether or not a person had done Martial Arts before. A place where people could train and work towards their own personal goals. MISOMA is not just a Martial Arts school but a family and anyone that joins us becomes part of that ever increasing family.

During the many years that I have been involved in the Martial Arts I have always been drawn to the competiton side of things. The feeling of testing yourself against another well trained fighter for me couldn't be beat. I fought for many years on circuits all around the country, internationally as well. It gave me the opportunity to meet, train and compete with some of the greatest Martial Artists over the last 3 decades. Alfie Lewis, Joe Tierney, Graham Abdullah, Brian Nelson, Kenny Walton, Kim Stones, Bill "Superfoot" Wallace to name but a few.

I no longer compete but still like to pad up and spar with my students. My main focus now is to produce the next wave of champions to compete and carry on where I left off. I've come full circle now and dedicate my time to developing my school and students. Whether it be students that want to compete, learn self defence or simply get fit. The challenge as always is the same, to produce the best classes whether it be group based or stylised around individuals to achieve the required goals.

I would like to take this opportunity to give thanks to my partner Sharon as well as friends and students that have supported me and never given up on me over the years, through the good times and the bad.

Keep smiling and keep Kicking!

Mark Ifill