By Youssef Haddouch, Second Year International Business
The University of Bristol Muay Thai Society is stepping into the 2025/26 academic year with fresh faces and big ambitions, including the society's first ever female president. From complete beginners to seasoned fighters, this new committee wants to create a space where anyone can discover the thrill of Thailand's national sport.
Athena Hou, a first-year Law student heading into her second year, is breaking new ground as the society's first female president. 'It's a step forward for diversity in a traditionally male-dominated sport,' says Hou. 'I hope this encourages more women, or just more people in general, to get into Muay Thai and break down barriers that might prevent them from joining.'
Her introduction to Muay Thai came from an unexpected place: 'Lowkey, it was to extend my curfew. My parents were more keen to let me stay out past 8pm if I knew a martial art,' she laughs. Now, she's aiming to 'create a welcoming environment for all and build a more tight-knit community.' Her proudest moment? Winning her first fight at the society's Fight Night 2024, and she's already hinting at exciting possibilities for the future, including a potential overseas trip.
The society's most recent Fight Night in February 2025 proved a major success, with several Bristol fighters claiming victories in front of a packed audience.
Jade Sutton, a second-year Philosophy student stepping into her third year, brings her passion as Vice President. 'I want to work with our social secs to help make the society more social and fun off the mat,' she explains. 'I also want to support our fighters and give them as many opportunities to get in the ring as possible.'
For anyone intimidated by combat sports, Sutton offers encouragement from her own journey: 'When I stepped into a gym for the first time, I was terrified. But it was the best decision of my life. Give it a go and stick it out for a bit. It can be hard at times and scary at first, especially if you're a woman, but I promise you won't regret it.'
Her personal growth speaks volumes: 'Ever since I started training, I've always wanted to fight, but the thought of getting in the ring terrified me. Fighting for the first time this year was a huge achievement for me.'
The social calendar is in good hands with Caleb Watkins, a first-year Civil Engineering student moving into his second year. 'I'm excited to explore more social ideas with themes as well as non-drinking socials and perhaps streaming and watching fights,' says Watkins, who wants to 'increase the integration of new people and less advanced students with the advanced students and the fight team.'
Working alongside Caleb will be Marat and Prasa as additional social secretaries, promising plenty of opportunities to bond outside training sessions.
The competitive side of things will be led by Igor Janiga as Fight Team Captain, currently on his year abroad and entering his final year of Law and French. With a kickboxing background from childhood, Janiga plans to 'have great relationships with other combat sports societies and host more open mats and create interclub opportunities within Bristol Uni.'
His goals include setting up 'as many match-ups as possible for those who want to compete against other universities' and making the society's fight night 'the best it has ever been.' As for his personal ambition? 'I'm looking forward to fighting in Thailand as it's always been a dream of mine.'
Ross Rayner, a second-year Biological Sciences MSc student moving into his third year, brings a unique origin story as one of the Coaching Secretaries. His Muay Thai journey began dramatically: 'Stupidly agreed to fight at a bar while travelling in Thailand. Proceeded to get my ass handed to me, but still had fun. Thought I should probably make sure that never happens again.'
Rayner's focus is on improving training: 'Hope to make training more personal and accessible to beginners. I personally found it wasn't easy to improve and learn when compared to a proper Muay Thai gym.' His plans include pushing for 'more open mats and interclubs' and possibly hosting 'an interclub early next term as an exhibition for new members.'
The coaching team will be completed by Christopher McQuade, who will work alongside Ross as Coaching Secretary to develop members skills throughout the year.
Hafis Lau, a first-year Geology student heading into his second year, will manage the society's finances as Treasurer. His reason for starting Muay Thai? Pure practicality: 'Got into Muay Thai cause my dad told me I'll get shanked in London if I don't know how to defend myself.' His advice for newcomers is refreshingly blunt: 'Don't think too much and just join.'
Joss Griffith joins the committee as the society's Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Officer, focusing on ensuring the sport remains accessible to everyone. As Muay Thai continues to grow in popularity, her role will be crucial in supporting the society's commitment to welcoming students from all backgrounds and experience levels.
The committee's unanimous verdict? Give Muay Thai a try. 'It's the kind of sport that really promotes the release of dopamine,' says Hou, while Rayner insists that 'the hardest part is just showing up for the first time.'
Watkins highlights the inclusive nature of the sport: 'Being an individual sport, there isn't a specific "type" that competes, so you'll find a wide range of people at the society.'
With Fight Night 2026 already on the horizon, plus potential interclub competitions, social events, and whispers of international trips, the Muay Thai Society is gearing up for a knockout year! Whether you're looking to compete or just learn something new.
Follow @uobmuaythai on Instagram for updates on training sessions, competitions, and social events.
Featured image: Tio Munthali
