Nationally recognised trainer brings disciple and focus to all ages in Narrogin

A mixed martial arts centre spearheaded by a nationally recognised trainer has come to Narrogin. The Narrogin Martial Arts Centre is offering young children, teenagers and adults a chance to hone their mind and body with classes in western boxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian jiujitsu and more. Owner Daniel McGrath says he wants to put Narrogin on the mixed martial arts map. Though the centre only opened its doors about seven weeks ago, he said business was going “really well”. About 40 children and 20 adults have signed up for training each week, Monday to Thursday. “The town’s really supported me and got behind it,” he said. Having been in the industry for more than 30 years, Mr McGrath has trained with professional martial artists, including former UFC fighter Will Chope. Mr McGrath emphasised that training for martial arts was largely about training the mind. “I focus a lot on discipline and understanding of what martial arts is and what a martial artist is; what it is to be a martial artist,” he said. “You’ve got to learn the inner spirit of the martial arts, which is the greater belief that you can become a better person for yourself and for your family and the community. “Otherwise you’re just teaching kids to be weapons because they are learning how to punch and kick and they are learning how to fight, but it’s a last resort.” To make sure children remain consistent with their training, he is going to ask teachers and parents to sign off on student behaviour ahead of grading. “All the kids, until you get to the adult classes, you’ve got to get your grade signed off from your school teachers and your parents,” he said. “You can’t come to my class and be the number one student and then go home and be swearing and fighting at school.” But teaching martial arts is more than a job for him, it is also a family affair. His daughter, Angel, has fought in over 22 competitions while his son has been training since he was a toddler. “My daughter’s 13, she’s been training since she was four or five years old,” he said. “My son’s seven years old. He’s been training since he was in nappies and he’s a little beast.” For details, visit the Narrogin Martial Arts Centre Facebook page.