Introduction:

In 2016, a new chapter unfolded as I landed on the vibrant shores of China, not as a fighter, but as an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher. Little did I know that this journey would lead to the birth of the Viking Forge Project, an odyssey that seamlessly merged my passion for teaching with the art of combat.

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The Early Days: ESL Teacher Turned Tutor

As an ESL teacher armed with a background of more than five years as a tutor in boxing schools, I brought a unique set of skills to the classroom. The art of teaching was no stranger to me, and soon, the echoes of the boxing ring found their way into my new role.

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Upgrading the Arsenal: Online TESOL and ESL Courses

In pursuit of excellence, I undertook online TESOL courses and additional ESL certifications. The commitment to honing my teaching skills was not just about imparting language; it was about instilling discipline, focus, and a warrior’s mindset in my students.

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The Unexpected Call: Coaching an Australian Boxer

Within a year, destiny knocked in an unexpected form—I was asked to train an Australian boxer. The combination of language and pugilistic skills created a unique blend that caught the attention of a major gym company, HOSA.

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Elevating the Game: Coaching the Coaches

Embracing the opportunity, I embarked on a new mission—to coach the coaches. Drawing from my extensive experience, I penned a book on coaching boxing for the general population. The pages became a guide, a roadmap for those who sought to master the art of teaching the sweet science.

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Wandering Warriors: A Two-Year Journey Across China

The Viking Forge Project took to the road, traversing the vast expanse of China. For two years, I crisscrossed the nation, conducting workshops, sharing insights, and building a network of like-minded individuals. The experience was enriching, the encounters were diverse, and the connections forged were the backbone of the Viking Forge community.

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To Be Continued…

As the sun set on this chapter, the Viking Forge Project was just getting started. The journey would continue, unveiling new chapters, forging new alliances, and sharing the wisdom gleaned from the road.

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Conclusion: The Intersection of Teaching and Combat

The Viking Forge Project’s genesis was a convergence—a blending of language, teaching, and combat. What began as a quest to impart language skills evolved into a mission to instill the principles of discipline, resilience, and the warrior’s ethos. The road ahead promised more challenges, more triumphs, and a continued commitment to forging warriors, both in the classroom and the gym.

Skål to the journey and the chapters yet to be written!

Gary
The Modern Viking