ACE Martial Arts

For National Heart Week, Coach Hays is doing something that's close to the heart.

It’s called "100 Rounds for Heart Health"

Earlier this year, Hays was diagnosed with heart disease.

Because of hereditary heart issues, he made the decision to be proactive and see a cardiologist, a decision that changed everything.

After a number of tests, it was discovered he had over 90% blockage in one of his arteries.
He was heading towards an imminent heart attack… without even knowing it.

That decision to get checked likely saved his life.

This challenge isn't just about fitness.

It’s about awareness. It’s about taking action before it’s too late.

On Saturday, 9th May, a select group at ACE Martial Arts will take this on, completing 100 rounds (3min per round) of bag work over a 6-hour period.

Every punch. Every dollar Counts.

Because heart health matters.

100 Rounds for Heart Health. Let’s go.

DONATE HERE!
https://www.doitforheart.org.au/s/3952/3702

In 2023, I was introduced to actor Daniel MacPherson through a mutual friend, Bel Fong. Daniel was looking for a place to train and develop his martial arts skills in preparation for his role in the MMA film, Beast.

While Daniel has been a lifelong athlete, stepping into the world of MMA was a significant new challenge. When he started at ACE Martial Arts on November 24, 2023, he had limited experience in boxing, Muay Thai, and grappling.

We began with the fundamentals, mirrorwork, footwork, and my specific striking system. He was locked in from day one, showing the discipline of a professional combat athlete. Within weeks, he developed excellent body awareness and the ability to self-correct. We progressed from intensive boxing to kickboxing flow drills and eventually to defence, and worked with Coach Zein on additional grappling and MMA skills.

Despite my advice to avoid heavy contact, Daniel was eager to experience sparring. During a Saturday class, he went rounds with two of our experienced fighters. He took some solid shots, including a tough body shot, but he never slowed down. That was the day I realised Daniel was a true martial artist and a "Beast"

What stood out most wasn't just his physical training, but his character. Daniel embraced the martial arts way with humility. He joined our regular classes with no ego, mingling and laughing with the other members while training hard.

Developing the spinning back kick was a highlight for both of us, and it is rewarding to see those skills featured so prominently in the movie.

Dan stayed consistent with his training throughout his busy schedule, working with experienced coaches around the world. Building his knowledge while constantly refining his skills.

Daniel MacPherson is a talented actor and a dedicated martial artist, but most importantly, he is an exceptional human being. We are proud to have him as part of the ACE Martial Arts family. Even after filming wrapped, Daniel has continued his training, which truly speaks to his commitment.

Massive congratulations to Daniel and the entire team behind Beast for an outstanding performance.

Highly recommend everyone go watch it.

Coach Hays

The post-fight chat.

No applause. No distractions.

We sit, we talk, we break it all down.

The good, the bad, the moments that mattered.

A win doesn’t mean you’re complete.

A loss doesn’t mean you’re finished.

It’s all part of the process.

Stay grounded. Stay coachable. Keep building.

Together. 15 Years of ACE.

🏆 ACE Martial Arts – End of Year Awards 🏆

Congratulations to all of our winners from the ACE Martial Arts End of Year Awards. Your hard work, consistency, and dedication throughout the year truly stood out.

A special congratulations to our ACE Martial Artist of the Year , Aaron Langer 🥇

Aaron received the rare Gold T-Shirt and now joins the winners’ plaque alongside ACE legends from past years — a huge achievement.

2025 Award Winners

Grappling – Most Improved
• Wassim Harkus

Grappling – Champion Award
• George Khouri

Most Improved – Boxing
• Abbas Tawbe

Most Improved – Kickboxing
• Kade Baird

Special Recognition Award
• Kaitlyn Langer
• Anjelica Issa

Fighter of the Year
• Hadi Mosslanni

The Bushido Award
• Jade Fajloun

ACE Martial Artist of the Year
• Aaron Langer

Proud of every single one of you. This is what commitment, respect, and perseverance look like.