Kelvin Davies, a former Royal Marines Commando, is making a powerful impact in Wolverhampton by leading self-defence classes tailored specifically for women and girls. His new initiative, Reel Grappling, launched this summer, aims to foster confidence, empowerment, and community engagement through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training.
Operating in the Fallings Park area on Tuesdays and Thursdays as well as at The Way Youth Zone in central Wolverhampton on Fridays, Reel Grappling’s mission goes beyond martial arts. Kelvin draws on over a decade of military experience to combine discipline with empathy, creating a supportive environment for young people—especially those from diverse or less privileged backgrounds.
Recognizing an urgent local need following a series of recent safety concerns, Kelvin introduced a women-only class designed to empower participants with practical self-defence skills. The sessions help women reclaim confidence and personal security, while encouraging a sense of unity across Wolverhampton’s multicultural community.
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At a recent Sunday session held at Our Lady and St Chad Catholic Academy in Fallings Park, sixteen women and girls from various backgrounds gathered for an engaging hour of training. The atmosphere blended camaraderie and laughter with serious focus on technique, fostering both skill development and social connection.
Kelvin emphasizes the importance of mixing participants during exercises to build trust and understanding across different ages, backgrounds, and body types. This approach highlights Reel Grappling’s underlying philosophy: martial arts as a tool for community cohesion, not competition.
As the classes continue to grow, Kelvin is actively seeking a permanent venue to expand Reel Grappling’s reach. His goal is to increase accessibility, raise awareness, and provide ongoing opportunities for people to connect and thrive together.
Participants like Nabkiran and Sangeeta—attending their first session—reflect the positive impact the classes are having. Nabkiran shared how attending helped build her confidence and heightened her awareness of personal safety when navigating the city. Sangeeta highlighted the physical and mental health benefits, valuing the class as a welcome break and an opportunity for self-care amidst her busy life.
Together, these stories underscore Reel Grappling’s role in creating a supportive community where women can grow stronger, safer, and more connected.