A SQUAD from The Combat Academy in Wombwell is about to travel down under to take part in the ISKA Word Championships.

The group of 30 includes 13 fighters aged from 13 to 24 who will compete in Brisbane, Australia.

Head coach Mick Crossland said: “We’re all keen to support the boys and girls plus three accompanying coaches so that our competitors succeed in achieving their ambitions.

“Last year in Vienna ours was the largest group from one gym in Team England and TCA fighters absolutely shone. We came home with 33 medals including 12 golds and 11 silvers out of a national haul of 98 medals which put the England team in overall third place.

“To say it was a proud moment is an understatement.”

Parents of the participants have paid for the trip through fundraising initiative Kicking4Change.

Crossland said: “Their tireless work to provide life-enhancing opportunities supported every team member and without them none of it would be possible.”

The first ever ISKA world championships to be held in Australia takes place at the Sleeman Sports Complex in Queensland’s capital over five days from October 15. Some 1,200 athletes from 40 countries are expected to participate in arrange of combat sports.

The Combat Academy participants include Riley Clugston, Jake Allott, Kean McMillan, Harvey Bowen, Lily Thomson, Caitlin Chapman, Leyton Utley, Charlie Herbert, Mason Decaro, Taylor Bowen, Guyvin Dawkins, Max Emeny and Sonny Greaves.

The coaches are Mick Crossland, Gasan Ghindra and Callum Cope.