A new chapter for martial arts in Rye began on Monday 5 January, when Sean Kinsella’s Martial Arts Academy (SKMA) opened its doors — the town’s only purpose-built, full-time martial arts academy at Unit 4 South Undercliff Rye TN31 7HW
Sean Kinsella and a team of willing volunteers, mainly parents of the students of SKMA, had been beavering away getting the new premises for the academy ready for Monday.
It was an opening with a fanfare and golden scissors. Town Cryer Paul Goring gave a glorious cry extolling the virtues of the dojo and of the Sensei Sean Kinsella. Councillor Chris Hoggart, Deputy Mayor, did the honours of cutting the ribbon with newly acquired golden scissors, declaring the venue open.
Watch the video to see how it unfolded.
Talking before the ceremony to George and Chase, two of the student ambassadors of SKMA, it was obvious how much they love their art. Both are multi-award-winning athletes, taking part in many disciplines including K1, boxing and kickboxing. They train at least four times a week as well as taking part in competitions.
Chase’s mum, Sherry Skinner, is an amazing supporter of the club, her daughter having been part of it for over eight years now. She explained that students also learn how to defend themselves should someone come at them with a weapon.
George’s father has trained with his son for many years having been a fighter in his own time and will soon be joining the academy as a coach. It is a tight-knit community, everyone looking out for each other and supporting when needed. It is almost a second family.
The school is Rye’s only purpose-built martial arts academy, created at the heart of the community — a place where confidence is built, discipline is learned and people grow stronger together, one black belt at a time.
For children and teenagers, training goes far beyond physical techniques. Classes focus on listening skills, patience, self-discipline and respect for both instructors and themselves.
Who is Sean Kinsella?
“My journey in martial arts began in 1988, training in Wado Ryu Karate, kickboxing and a range of other disciplines.
“In July 1999, I opened my first school, and over the years I’ve had the privilege of guiding more than 160 students to black belt and beyond, helping many achieve success — not just in competition, but in life.
“I passed my 6th Dan Black Belt in 2019 and continue to train and develop alongside some of the very best instructors. At the core of everything I do is a belief in giving back — using martial arts to support confidence, respect, resilience and calm within our community.
“Our full-time academy in Rye is a true labour of love. Purpose-built and fully matted, it offers hanging and free-standing bags, a quality sound system, viewing gallery, reception, and facilities, with plans for a boxing ring in the future. While there is no on-site parking, several nearby car parks are just a short walk away.”
Martial arts strengthens the body but also steadies the mind. It builds confidence through practice, not bravado, and discipline through consistency rather than force. Over time, strength develops alongside patience, focus and self-control.
Training teaches respect—for instructors, for others and for oneself. It encourages calm under pressure, resilience when things are difficult, and the ability to listen and learn.
Beyond the physical skills, martial arts helps people carry themselves with quiet assurance in everyday life, making it as much about personal growth as it is about movement and technique.
Image Credits: Kt bruce , SKMA .