FNN Reporters Learn Muay Thai
Story by Kristian Edwards, Julian Avent, Dontavious Armstrong, Shaniya Robinson and Sa’id Braxton. Photo by Benji Mallory.
On March 1st, 2025, Coaches Jason, Ron, and Nick led a private lesson with Flonora Merritt, Friendship News Network advisor, along with her students Kristian Edwards, Shaniya Robinson, Julian Avent, Sa’id Braxton, and Dontavious Armstrong at Travel Train Teach Muay Thai Dojo. Travel Train Teach is a minority-owned martial arts building in College Park, MD. The goal of the event was to engage in combat sports such as Muay Thai, and create a fun and engaging hands-on session of journalism and photography. This was our experience at the dojo.
I wanted to go to the Muay Thai workshop because I felt like it would be a good opportunity for me to experience and learn new things. I also thought it would be a lot of fun. I had a really good time. My experience was great, I learned a lot of new things and I like the way the coaches taught us, they were really patient and kind. My experience was also amazing because I finally learned something in the martial arts department, so maybe I could possibly add it to my resume. The overall experience was good. They give you free drinks and a gift after your first class. I recommend it, it’s a 10 out of 10 experience for sure and very fun. If you’re interested in Muay Thai or any fighting of that sort I recommend going there!
Shaniya Robinson, Junior
I wanted to learn Muay Thai because I wanted to learn all types of martial arts to be more versatile with my fighting style, because I want to be a mixed martial arts fighter and win belts. I also wanted to try it out and see for myself how it feels to learn something new, because I like learning new things, and I love the challenge that it gives me. The teachers gave clear instructions on how to perform the moves. I learned how to defend myself and other tactics that you can use for self-defense, especially in a tournament. I recommend this Muay Thai class because it can help with anger management and help to get your mind off things that are bothering you so you can push forward through hardships.
Dontavious Armstrong, Junior
I wanted to go on the trip because I wanted to try Muay Thai. I did martial arts before, so why not try out another style? It would be a similar style to what I had tried before and who knows, I could possibly love Muay Thai more than I had liked the previous two. Previously, I had done mixed martial arts for about a year and Tae Kwon Do for two, but quit about five years ago. My experience at Travel Train Teach was amazing. I had fun. During our time it felt like a new experience. It felt like I was learning punches, kicks and the basics all over again. The three teachers were all cool, professional, and nice. They all helped me learn the basics and it felt familiar, yet different. Because I’m a left-handed person, they also took the time to show me how to do the moves with my left hand and leg instead of only considering the right-handed participants. I would go back to Train Travel Teach. They even offer a free trial if you’re interested.
Sa’id Braxton, Junior
The Muay Thai workshop with Travel Train Teach was a lot of fun. At Travel Train Teach we learned Muay Thai and the history of it. We had trainers show us what to do and helped us when we got something wrong. The location is by the College Park train station, so it's easy to get to. It's good to go because you learn how to defend yourself and keep yourself safe. I went because I love anime and I also needed a way to defend myself. It's easy to learn if you take your time. I would love to go back.
Julian Avent, Sophomore
From the moment I walked into the gym and wrapped my hands, I knew I was about to start an amazing journey. Every session pushed me, both physically and mentally, as I learned the basics. With the help of fantastic trainers, I improved my striking and footwork while also picking up valuable lessons about perseverance and patience. Each time I trained, my confidence grew, and my passion for Muay Thai deepened. And it's all thanks to Coach Ron, Coach Jason, and Coach Nick!
Kristian Edwards, Junior