Champion-led programme aims to keep Mold youngsters active over summer
Former world kickboxing champion Ricky Nicholson has opened the doors of his Nicholson Martial Arts Academy in Mold for free weekly kickboxing sessions aimed at young people this August. The sessions, taking place every Wednesday at the New Street academy, are being offered at no charge as part of a wider community initiative designed to promote fitness, self-defence and personal development.
The academy, which opened in Mold earlier this year after the coach spent several years searching for suitable premises, will run separate classes for children and teenagers. The programme is open to all abilities and aims to be inclusive for newcomers as well as those with previous experience.
| Day | Location | Age groups |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesdays (throughout August) | Nicholson Martial Arts Academy, New Street, Mold | Children 8–13; Teenagers 14–17 |
Ricky Nicholson, now 53 and originally from Bagillt, brings more than four decades of martial arts experience to the academy. He began training in Taekwondo at the age of 12 after experiencing bullying and later moved into kickboxing. His competitive career includes Welsh, British, European and Commonwealth titles, and in 2000 he became a professional world kickboxing champion, having competed internationally in countries including Japan, Hawaii, Switzerland and the United States.
“My motivation is getting people into martial arts. I don’t care whether they’ve got aspirations to become champions or not. I want them getting into the sport because it’s a great way of learning self-defence, keeping fit, becoming focused and gaining important life skills.”
Community focus beyond competition
While Nicholson’s record in the ring is significant, the emphasis of the Mold academy is broader than producing elite fighters. The coach said his ambition is to help people enjoy the physical and mental benefits of martial arts, from improved fitness to increased focus and confidence.
The academy already offers a range of activities in addition to the free summer sessions, including monthly free women’s self-awareness and self-protection workshops. Local partnerships have been formed to broaden the offer: classes include Brazilian Jiu Jitsu through 36 Chambers BJJ and a revived boxing club, Flintshire Boxing Club, which continues the legacy of the late Mold coach Gerry Greeves under its head coach.
- Free weekly sessions run every Wednesday in August for children and teenagers.
- Women’s workshops are offered monthly at no cost to participants.
- Inclusive coaching aimed at all abilities, not solely competitive training.
Locally, the academy’s activities provide a new hub for young people during the summer holiday and contribute to the town’s sporting life. For families seeking structured, supervised physical activity, the sessions represent an accessible option that combines exercise with practical self-defence instruction.
Nicholson’s choice to base his academy in Mold follows his years of searching for suitable premises, signalling a long-term commitment to the area. The presence of established clubs such as Flintshire Boxing Club alongside newer offerings may also encourage collaboration and continuity in local coaching pathways.
Residents interested in attending the free sessions or learning more about the academy’s timetable and other programmes are advised to contact Nicholson Martial Arts Academy directly. The initiative offers a timely boost to summer activities for young people across Mold and underscores the continuing role of grassroots sport in building resilience, skills and community ties.
