The English teacher Hiro, hopes to take the Prokick franchise with him when he returns to Japan next week.

“Hiro was with us for over a year back in 2002 and has visited Northern Ireland twice since his return in 2003.” said Prokick founder and chief coach Billy Murray. “He first came over to study English at Queens’ in November 2002. In fact, he chose Belfast over offers from Galway and Dublin because of Prokick.

"Before he arrived he had emailed me asking for tips on where to find good boxing gyms in Ireland. We started talking and after hearing about what Prokick had to offer he decided to move to Belfast and enrol with us.”

Since then Hiro hasn’t looked back he has continued to work hard at kickboxing and even took part in a demonstration at the Prokick’s 10th anniversary dinner bash in the Hilton hotel. Before coming to Ireland Hiro’s hobbies were swimming, judo and boxing, but he has fallen in love with the Martial Art sport during his time here.

“We were terribly disappointed to see him go. He’s a terrifically well liked member – very gracious and kind, a true gent. It is great that he chooses to return here for his vacations and catch up with all the members at Prokick."

We will of course remain in touch as he launches the Prokick name in Japan. That’s very exciting for everyone here – taking kickboxing back to the Far East where it began, via east Belfast.”

Prokick would like to wish Hiro all the very best in the future.