Jess began kickboxing at 19, and she took her own small steps towards an almost impossible dream, in a tough and male-dominated sport, by overcoming the losses and learning to perform under pressure, to become a champion. Since retiring from fighting, her focus has been on supporting young people to become the best they can be, encouraging empowered action, increasing aspirations, educating on health and wellbeing, and raising resilience!
Jess learned to fight long before stepping in the ring, as she grew up with both parents addicted to drugs and alcohol. She emphasizes that addicts are not bad people, they are suffering themselves, and they need support. Despite being academic at school, Jess suffered from social anxiety and avoidance, which resulted in her leaving with no qualifications. It was through kickboxing that Jess began to transform her life, increasing her self-esteem and confidence, and improving her mental and physical health.
When she first began kickboxing, Jess was the only woman in the gym, incapable of doing one press-up. She has always been dedicated, and driven to achieve, despite the difficulties she has faced. Becoming a blackbelt has a special place in her heart, alongside the title belts she often takes into schools with her, as it encompasses the lifelong journey of learning, and teaching, that she is on as a martial artist.
‘You don’t become a champion without a coach in your corner’.
Jess gives credit to her family, her coaches, and the communities she has been part of, in supporting her toward becoming a champion. Now she would like to be in the corner, from the stage, and in schools, supporting future champions!
Watch Jess in action here.
Sussex
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