UNEARTHED

Scarlett and Austin Sayfritz, aged 17 and 12 The Gryphon School

Siblings Scarlett and Austin Sayfritz are celebrating after both passing their black belts in kickboxing within a month of each other!

Describing their family as very active, the pair started kickboxing five years ago but were interrupted by the pandemic. Since returning, they have been training hard twice a week at Panthers Martial Arts Academy under Sensei Kire Antoski.

Scarlett says it’s the discipline and strategic thinking that she loves about the sport, pitting her wits against her opponents to anticipate their next move. For younger brother Austin, it is the physicality that appeals.

To gain their black belts, both had to complete a difficult fitness test before moving on to the sparring section. They then had to complete 5 3-minute rounds against fresh opponents, with only a minute break in between.

With their black belts achieved, both are keen to carry on with the sport they love. Scarlett is looking to go to university and study International Relations next year – her choice of uni dependent on there being a kickboxing club nearby!

gryphon.dorset.sch.uk panthersmaa.com