Black belt success for Woolton Hill boy

Matthew Rawlings has gained his black belt at the age of 14, one year earlier than his brother Edward did

A WOOLTON Hill boy has followed in his brother's footsteps in gaining his junior black belt at a young age.

However, 14-year-old Matthew Rawlings has gained his black belt one year earlier than his brother Edward, who achieved his black belt at the age of 15.

Matthew, a pupil at The Clere School in Burghclere, started judo in 2004 after watching his brother in judo lessons and he has since worked his way up through the belts under the guidance of eudo coach, Nick Lowe.

Matthew's mother, Bridget Rawlings, said she was proud of her son and said it was no mean feat to achieve what he had at such a young age.

She said: “I think it is a huge achievement for him and I think it is very good for such a young man.

“He is one of the youngest in the club to get a black belt and he knows his ability and what he can and can't do.”

Mr Lowe also paid tribute to Matthew's achievement, adding that it was down to his sheer determination to do well.

He said: "His focus on the more technical aspects of this very dynamic sport is what sets him apart from his peers and why he was promoted earlier than Edward.

"I've seen a young boy develop from not being sure about this combat activity, which puts huge demands on having to be physical and at times questioning whether judo is for him - to an inspiration for other children.

"This was all achieved with the right amount of gentle persuasion in the very early days and large amounts of positive vibes from coach and especially mum and dad to guide him through the latter part of this novice stage."

Matthew will now prepare to compete in his first competition next month since getting his black belt.