Dutch-Flemish consultation for a stronger combat sports sector

Combat sports organisations from the Netherlands and Flanders recently came together to exchange knowledge and experience and to give shape to closer cooperation.

Many Dutch and Flemish combat athletes regularly cross the border to compete or train with their neighbours. It is therefore only logical that the organisations in both countries maintain good contact and coordinate matters. For some time now, Dutch gyms wishing to take part in bouts in Belgium have had to hold the Combat Sports Authority Quality Mark. Belgian gyms active in the Netherlands must be members of the Belgian umbrella federation BKBMO. In this way the two countries help each other safeguard quality and keep out unwanted participants.

From the Netherlands, the VA and the NVB attended the recent consultation. The Flemish Boxing League, the Flemish Kickboxing and Muaythai Organisation and the Flemish Combat Sports Platform represented our southern neighbours. The agenda included the use of the Fightpassport, developments around the Combat Sports Authority Quality Mark, the rules on techniques to the head up to the age of 18, and medical examinations.

This productive consultation will be followed up later this year with an extensive working visit by a Flemish delegation to Dutch gyms and events.