Rusty Gloves Combat Academy fighting for purpose, discipline and confidence

ON SEPTEMBER 2 1882, Kimberley became the first town in the Southern Hemisphere to install electric street lighting, in what must have been a beacon of hope for many at the time.

Now, just over 140 years on, a new light is shining brightly in the city, this time in the world of sports and community development. This bright light is the Rusty Gloves Combat Academy.

This establishment has quickly become a source of inspiration and hope in the city as well as further reaches of the province. The DFA recently had the privilege of sitting down with Russell Bindeman, the academy's boxing coach and co-owner, to delve into their mission, programs, and future ambitions of the academy.

Nestled within Kimberley’s vibrant sports community and situated at the Boys High School hostels, the Rusty Gloves Combat Academy is not just a gym; it’s a haven where dreams are nurtured, self-confidence is fortified, and discipline is instilled as a life skill.

When asked about the driving force behind this remarkable academy, Bindeman emphasised its pivotal role in fostering community development through the power of sports. The academy’s vision, according to Bindeman, is simple yet profound: ‘To offer a platform for prospective combatants, ensuring that children and adults alike find purpose, self-assurance, and a sense of discipline in their lives’.

The academy's mission is grounded in a resolute commitment to long-term sustainability. Their ultimate goal is to groom professional boxers and facilitate professional tournaments that will include fighters not only from Kimberley but the entire Northern Cape, including places like Upington, Kuruman, Springbok, and De Aar.

With a team that boasts extensive experience, the academy is poised to not only achieve success but also ensure the enduring impact of their efforts, turning this endeavour into a lifelong commitment.

The academy is set up to accommodate a wide range of combat sports. Their impressive facilities include Jiu Jitsu mats, boxing bags, gloves, punch balls, as well as a team of highly qualified coaches.

The academy offers an impressive array of programmes too, catering to diverse interests. These encompass professional and amateur boxing, Jiu Jitsu, and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Training techniques at the academy are meticulously crafted to instil discipline and technique. In boxing, the focus is on striking and proper punching techniques without compromising defence, in Jiu Jitsu, the emphasis is on grappling and physically neutralising opponents, making for a comprehensive combat sports education, while MMA is the perfect blend between the two disciples.

Seeing as the academy is offering training in combat sports, the DFA asked Bindeman how old prospective students need to be? Who is too young or too old? Bindeman told the DFA that the Rusty Gloves Combat Academy welcomes individuals as young as 8 years old and above, ensuring that both the young and the young at heart can pursue their passion for combat sports.

And is it reasonably priced? Yes it is; the coach told the DFA that prospective members can explore a variety of pricing options, with general pricing starting at just R250 per month for all disciplines; he added that special rates are available for different categories.

Bindeman went on to underline the academy’s commitment to tailoring training to individual needs, welcoming beginners and advanced boxers alike. The academy stands firmly behind its promise to help every member reach their full potential.

Meanwhile, exciting events are on the horizon for the Rusty Gloves Combat Academy. On October 20 ((((today)))), they will play host to the Bloemfontein White Collar Boxing event. Then, come December, the academy will be buzzing with energy as the Submission Kings and a Professional Boxing Tournament take centre stage in Upington.

The academy already boasts its fair share of success stories. Coach Dexter Haai and Chin-Arha Bindeman competed in the Submission Kings Jiu Jitsu Tournament, with Chin-Arha, in her first competition, earning both silver and bronze medals, underscoring the academy’s dedication to nurturing talent.

In the end, the Rusty Gloves Combat Academy is much more than a place to learn combat sports; it’s a community dedicated to empowering individuals, promoting discipline, and shaping a brighter future for Kimberley through the transformative power of sports.

If you're looking to embark on a journey of self-improvement and skill development, this academy might just be the perfect place for you. Join their ranks and be a part of Kimberley's ever growing sporting landscape.

For those interested in connecting with the academy or signing up for classes, reaching out is easy. You can send an email to sweetscienceboxingclub@gmail.com or contact them via cell at 0615096687.