A good coach is always learning
Allan Clarkin, the head coach of Black Knights gym, in Burnley, England, has just completed an IMMAF Coaching course. Clarkin, who guided the career of UFC legend Michael Bisping, and is one of Britain’s bestmartial arts coaches, was enthusiastic about his experience.
“I am 69 this month and have been coaching for over 40 years but I still wish to learn and hope to progress onto more courses that IMMAF have to offer,” said Clarkin. “Many people are running clubs/classes or gyms but have never taken a coach award, of any type. I was very impressed with the IMMAF course which gives insight into many aspects of coaching, and will give all those who obtain the certificate a more professional approach, and more credibility. This type of course is a must for all those who are running MMA gyms, I would also say to those who run other style of combat sports, get on this course.”
“The fact that the IMMAF grades syllabus is International is also a feather in the cap,” said Clarkin. “Anyone going to another club anywhere in the world can say, “yes, my standard is as good as yours”. The grade syllabus lays strong foundations, for recreational or competitive standards.”
Andrew Moshanov, IMMAF Director of Development said “We designed the system of coach education to match the coaches’ needs and aspirations so Allan’s reaction is very encouraging. It is vital that all coaches are on the same page, particularly when we talk about progressive introduction of the skills and techniques of such a complex and demanding sport as mixed martial arts.”
“I agree with IMMAF’s no head shots policy for under 18s”
Allan Clarkin is also very supportive of the IMMAF policy to refuse head shots in competitions for Under 18 athletes. “The reason I decided to work with the IMMAF family, was because of this policy to have a progressive scale of contest development, with no head strikes for young people, which is much needed in Martial Sports. The young person can then decide, when they are 18+. if they wish to compete in the adult groups and accept head strikes, This way, they make the choice, not the parents or a club coach, as regards competing with head strikes,” said Clarkin.
“I believe this underlines the fact that IMMAF offers the highest level of safety in competition, with high level officials who have to undertake in depth courses. Add to this drug testing and standardised contest gear, and it raises IMMAF head and shoulders above the rest as the credible world governing body for MMA.”
IMMAF President, Kerrith Brown: “On behalf of IMMAF, we welcome the supportive words of Allan and are very pleased that someone with decades of experience in combat sport appreciates the hard work that we are doing to regulate and promote the sport of MMA, especially for the benefit of athletes and coaches, who are our key stakeholders.”
