My name is Mees Coppelmans, and I teach the Tuesday evening MMA class at Radbudo. I started doing this in 2022 after training MMA myself for about five years with great enthusiasm at the Radboud Sports Centre. What struck me when I first started training was the incredibly positive atmosphere within the group. There was a lot of laughter, everyone felt comfortable, and it was always a good time. We’ve managed to maintain that vibe to this day, and I think that’s what makes us unique within the often tough world of MMA.
I personally have a background in judo, in which I achieved my first dan (black belt). My judo career is now behind me, and I’ve been focusing on MMA and BJJ/grappling for some time. In addition to teaching at Radbudo, I train at Strive/Kickboxing Arnhem, and you’ll also occasionally see me at other classes at the RSC.
What I enjoy about MMA compared to other (combat) sports is the personal style that everyone can develop. If it works, it works. There isn’t really a “right” or “wrong” — you can decide for yourself which techniques suit your own style. On top of that, because MMA incorporates all fighting styles, there’s an incredible amount of techniques to learn. Even after years of training, you’ll regularly come across new things you can try out during sparring.
Speaking of sparring: in class, I always try to strike a good balance between going hard and going home safe. MMA is a full-contact sport — there’s no getting around that. However, you’ll learn during training how to practice it in a responsible way with your fellow students. Hope to see you soon on the mat! OSU!