The first kickboxing grading exercise of the Namibian MMA Kickboxing Academy took place at the Walvis Bay MMA and Kickboxing Gym today. The kickboxing grading exercise at MMA was held to determine how students progress throughout the year. Belt grading systems are used by kickboxing schools as a way to both inspire and demonstrate a student's advancement in the sport. The beginner’s kickboxing belt is given to the trainee as soon as he or she enrolls in the gym or club. The student needs to perform all required tasks and pass a number of tests and drills to earn the next colour or grade. The challenges and requirements depend on the kickboxing school. Some institutions also have levels within each grade. These show how much the trainee has improved through the phases until he’s ready to move on to the next grade. There are corresponding exercises, requirements, sparring matches and tests along the course to ensure that the trainee is well-equipped and is competent enough for the belt the trainee is wearing. Twenty-six juniors and seven seniors took part in the grading, after which all students received a certificate and a belt, and walked out proud as champions in their own right, with the youngest student only five years old. The Namibian MMA Kickboxing Academy has very high standards and the club is producing champions and maintaining exceptional standards. The support from parents at the event was phenomenal and students inspired other youngsters to get more people involved in the sport. Throughout the event it became clear that the trademark of a true champion is to stay humble.