Bradford Teen Set For Success As Combat Sports Coach

Bradford teen Harley Brooks aims to be the best local combat sports coach and, as he turns eighteen this month, there are good reasons to see how that ambition might be fulfilled.

Editor’s Note: This guest article was kindly written and submitted by James Bovington.

Harley has already built a thriving business in the purpose-built 90 square metre gym attached to his home in Thornton.

“Coaching is my job and I work six days a week at my gym, Shadow Fitness and Striking, with up to 35 clients aged between three and 63,” explains Harley.

“I also welcome groups such as my younger brother’s rugby team. I’ve set up my own Tuesday evening MMA striking class. Aged ten I started helping coach small children and now I’m planning for a few of my students to get on May’s Combat Challenge show at Cedar Court.”

Harley himself has frequently shown his prowess at the venue in multiple fight disciplines, most recently winning a Yorkshire K1 kickboxing title at 64 kg last November.

“Harley’s been training with us for three years,” said Callum Mullen, head coach at Strike Kings.

“He started out in combat sports aged just five. Harley is competent in MMA as well as kickboxing and Thai boxing. Those attending saw just what a tough, talented fighter Harley is as he put on an exciting, exhilarating and entertaining performance showcasing skills that make him an accomplished fighter.”

Speaking about his influences and journey so far, Harley said:

“My mum, aunt and uncle trained as kickboxers. Mum enrolled me when I was five and not long after I was in junior tournaments. I guess it’s a good job I loved it immediately and must have shown aptitude and talent. “

“Granddad Gary Castleden has always been my role model. He coached at boxing at Bradford Police Boys Club and trained Tasif Khan the current Super flyweight WBC Silver World Champion. Tasif later became my boxing coach. He also trained former WBC light welterweight champion Bradford’s Junior Witter. I was born for combat sports.”

Harley has an impressive record with 49 wins in 60 kickboxing bouts and one Thai boxing victory and two wins in amateur boxing. He’s also got MMA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and wrestling experience.

“I’m always confident, relaxed going into a bout and over the years I’ve built up a bit of a following.”

A loyal following supporting the tough, talented and undoubtedly courageous young Bradford fighter with a boisterous vocal chorus chanting ‘Harley’ as he further distinguishes himself in battle.

“I always get the crowd going with a dramatic start such as a flying kick to the face. I’m a strategic fighter who can wrap up a contest with a crazy sweep of combinations from the toolbox as I adapt to an opponent’s style and counter his shots. I might become a professional fighter later but I’m most enthusiastic about developing my gym. I maintain my own fitness as I teach such as when I take the rugby lads for a jog.”

Harley coaches Bradford’s award-winning MMA fighter Abbas Hussain, 15 who said:

“I enjoy Harley’s classes and learn loads. I leave the gym more confident each time. I appreciate the effort you put in.”

These sentiments were also echoed by Hassan Butt:

“Harley’s a fantastic coach and a natural instructor. Harley took time to understand my young son allowing us to see him make considerable improvement in technique and confidence. Harley teaches children at their level keeping sessions engaging and shows genuine interest in how children develop.”

“Our gym’s well-equipped and we’re always looking to improve the facilities,” concluded Harley.

“I’m grateful to our sponsors Gregson Electrical Contracting Ltd and decorators G&S Castleden. Future potential clients and sponsors can contact me via Instagram @harleyk1_pt or e-mail shadowft@mail.com”

Image Credits: Harley Brooks/James Bovington.