IT PROMISES to be a big year for young Jack Moody.

The 14-year-old from Burnley has recently achieved his junior black belt at the Masters of Martial Arts grading and in April will compete in the British Ju Jitsu championships held by the sports National Governing body the British Ju Jitsu Association.

And Jack, a pupil at St Wilfrid’s High School in Blackburn has also been selected and represent his country to compete in the United Nations Championships in South Africa in October.

The black belt and the England call-up has been down to hard work and dedication.

He has been training since the age of five years old and received his black belt, alongside Bradley Walker who has been a member of the Masters of Martial Arts since he was seven.

The pair received their junior black belt grading certificates in front of the junior black belt class which included more than 50 teenagers.

The club has also announced its student of the year winner.

Nominees represented various clubs throughout the area after having met all requirements and demonstrated high proficiency and standards.

And the winner was Yasin Latif who picked up his trophy alongside Emily Wong, Declan Acomb, Otis Smith, Adam Whewell and Marley Byrne who had all been shortlisted.

  • Anyone interested joining the Masters of Martial Arts which should visit www.mma.uk.com or call 07850 317553