‘Enormous pride’ as Mirfield youngster earns England selection at major martial arts event
A schoolboy from Mirfield has achieved an “incredible milestone” by being selected to represent England at the WKC World Championships in Spain later this month.
Jake Fretwell , 11, will fly to Cadiz with the rest of Team England on Friday, October 23, where he will compete on the international stage against martial artists from around the world.
The youngster, a First Dan black belt who attends Crossley Fields Junior and Infant School, began training with X Martial Arts in 2020 at just four years old, and has since developed a real passion for the sport.
His mum, Amy, said: “For Jake, this is the culmination of years of dedication, determination and hard work, and a moment that means so much to him and our family. It is a moment of enormous excitement and pride.”
The journey to represent England has not always been straightforward.
“When he first trialled for the Team XMA competition squad, he was unsuccessful,” Amy said. “At just seven years old, it would have been easy to feel disappointed and give up, but Jake chose to use the experience as motivation.
“Six months later, he tried again and earned his place on the squad. His first external competition was the WKKC English Nationals, aged seven and a half, where he won a bronze medal. He was also considered for Team England selection at that stage, but his coaches felt he needed more time to develop.
“Rather than allowing this to discourage him, Jake returned to training with an even stronger determination to improve and prove himself.
And the hard work has really begun to pay off. He trains five times a week, attends weekly personal training sessions and travels between X Martial Arts in Wakefield and York to learn from world class instructors.
Jake said: “I was really really happy when I found out the news. I am excited to compete against the best from around the world.
"I feel ready to step onto the mats in my England uniform and give it my all.”
Taking part in the overseas world championship has come with significant expenses, but the family is “incredibly grateful” to The Mirfield Educational Charity which has helped with travel, competition uniform and entry costs.
“The charity’s support means a great deal to us,” Amy said. “It is wonderful to know that local organisations are willing to invest in young people and help them pursue their ambitions.
“We hope Jake’s story also highlights the difference that this kind of support can make in helping a local child take the next step in their sporting journey.”
She added: “As Jake’s mum, watching him work towards this achievement has made me immensely proud. I have seen the highs and lows, the early starts, the training sessions, the sacrifices and the determination he has shown along the way."