A back injury at the start of year wasn’t capable of holding him back from doing what he loves, even though at the time it seemed unlikely he would return to his much-loved sport.

“After several months of rehab, thanks to the team at Inspire Health Scone, I made a return to competition in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu,” he told the Hunter Valley News.

“Since returning to the mat this year I became two times Triple Bull champion, NSW Spring Cup champion and Oceanic champion.

“My most recent win was gold in the NSW Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation Spring Cup on November 15 where I took gold in the Nogi event.

“This event is jiu jitsu without a Gi and is very relevant to the world of wrestling and Mixed Martial Arts.”

Eadie has been training martial arts for almost three decades and loves competing.

He said competing has a way of keeping you honest and helping you adapt under pressure.

“I love the accomplishments attributed to this discipline because the hard work and pressure is no different to the things that life throws at you,” he said.

“The most rewarding aspect to coaching is travelling the journey with someone.

“You're in a position of influence but most of all it becomes more about friendship.

“I think the best coaches are those who are willing to be seen as human beings who go through the same struggles and issues.

“A good coach can show how when life knocks you down you get back up and keep fighting but can introduce the tools needed to do it.”

The manager and head coach at Hunter Central Academy said when it comes to this discipline, size and strength are not as important as skill.

“All you need is passion and the will to work hard and achieve,” he said.

“I believe we have some serious talent forming in this school.

“We are producing more and more champions at this academy and it’s because we're on the cutting edge of all that is new.

“This year has been successful and I'm expecting greater things for next year.”

For more information on Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, MMA or Thai Boxing visit www.huntercentralacademy.com or find them on Facebook or contact 0413 806 365.