WAW Academy
Professional Wrestling Training Classes for Beginners and Veterans
We specialise in British technical wrestling but our trainers can cater to all popular wrestling styles. In addition to teaching you the fundamentals of British wrestling, our training sessions include ring fitness, movement training, and how to protect yourself in the ring.
Performing at live events is a vital step in the process of becoming a professional wrestler. Students who prove themselves capable inside the ring will be eligible to compete in matches on Academy shows. There are aspects of being a wrestler that can only be learned in front of a live audience, such as how to interact with the fans, make them want to invest their emotions into the match, and channel their energy into your performance.
Several notable alumni who learned to wrestle at the WAW Academy include multiple-time World champion Nick Aldis, two-time WWE Divas Champion Paige, AEW stars Kip Sabian and Olympic Bronze medallist Anthony Ogogo, and former Premier League footballer Grant Holt.
We accept students of any experience level, whether you’re a new starter looking for beginners wrestling classes or you’re a seasoned pro looking to enhance your wrestling knowledge.
Group wrestling classes take place on two weekends per month; one-to-one sessions are also available with several of our approved trainers accepting students on an hourly basis throughout the week. Beginners often benefit from learning the basics of wrestling in these more direct sessions before joining the weekend sessions.
All wrestling training sessions take place at the WAW Academy and Performance Centre in Norwich, Norfolk.
2023 Wrestling Training Weekend Dates
Every first and third full weekend of the month
Weeklong camps – August 7th to 11th (Adults, 16+), August 14th to 16th (Young Performers, 6-15yrs)
WAW Young Performers
Give your child the opportunity to try a unique and exciting hobby with our under 16s youth club. The WAWYP was first established by head coach Zak Knight in 2012 as the WAW Youth Club. Sessions revolve around the very basics of British wrestling with an emphasis on the importance of personal fitness, confidence, and self-defence. Positive social skills are also heavily encouraged through team-building exercises, games, and a friendly group atmosphere.
Several members of the WAW Elite and Bellatrix Elite rosters began their wrestling careers within the WAWYP. This includes Ricky Knight Jr, Leia Elise, Jaiden Docwra, and Karama.
If you think your child would benefit from joining the WAWYP, get in touch! Each child’s first intake session is free so you AND your child can work out whether it’s suitable for them. Children must be at least six years old to attend.
All WAWYP training sessions take place at the WAW Academy and Performance Centre in Norwich, Norfolk.
Current WAW Young Performers Training Schedule
Wednesdays, 6.30pm to 8.30pm
Second full weekend of each month, 10am to 4pm
Referee, Commentator & Ring Announcer Training
Professional Wrestling Referee School
Do you want to get involved in wrestling but don’t think an in-ring career is right for you? We also cater to individuals who want to try their hand at less physically demanding roles. Our non-wrestling training sessions are for you if you want to become a referee, commentator, ring announcer/MC, or learn more about event production.
Refereeing – Knowing how to officiate a match is harder than it looks. There’s more to this highly demanding role than just counting to three, the wrestling rule book is longer than any novel. To be a referee you need to understand the ring inside and out, including how to set one up. Knowing how a ring is supposed to sound and feel is an important part of keeping everyone involved in a match safe at all times.
Our refereeing course provides the basics of being a wrestling referee or can help experienced referees enhance their knowledge.
Commentary – Watching a match and knowing the names of wrestlers, and the moves they’re performing is one thing, being able to informatively communicate that knowledge in real-time is a challenge on a completely different level. Good commentary can heighten the drama unfolding in the ring, adding to the overall presentation of filmed events in a way that can’t be matched by anything else outside of the ropes.
Find out how to keep up with fast-paced action, unpredictable events, and how to develop an in-depth understanding of the wrestlers competing at an event.
Ring Announcer/MC – Learn how to set the stage for in-ring action as a ring announcer, providing the audience with important details about the matches taking place at a live event. Every wrestler has a unique way of being introduced, it’s the responsibility of a good MC to ensure they know what information is needed to introduce contestants correctly.
Understand how to conduct research into a match card before any microphones are switched on and you’ll be in a good position to engage the crowd.
Production Crew – Filming a wrestling match isn’t as simple as pointing a camera at the ring and hoping for the best. Ringside camera work requires an understanding of how to frame shots, follow the action, and being mindful of your surroundings at all times.
Backstage production includes setting up backstage promos, managing the PA system, how and when to cue entrance music, operating lighting and smoke machines with expert timing, and adjusting audio levels in a rapidly changing performance environment.
All non-wrestler training takes place at the WAW Academy and Performance Centre in Norwich, Norfolk.
Upcoming Non-Wrestling Training Dates
TBC
