About Us

Samuel Ballantyne

Founder & Manager

My name is Samuel, and my journey with Muay Thai began long before I ever stepped into a gym.

I immigrated to Australia from the UK in 1991, settling in the small country town of Bunbury. Growing up with a single mum, life wasn’t easy. We faced constant financial struggles, and that took a toll on me at school, where I became the target of bullying.

As I got older, resentment and anger started to build. Without a strong male role model, my view of the world became distorted, and I lost direction. When my mum moved interstate at 15, leaving me alone in WA, things took a dark turn. I turned to alcohol , drugs & food to cope with the pain, reaching 114kg and sinking into deep depression and anxiety.

By 19, my anger controlled me. I was on a path that could have easily led to prison or worse. Then a friend suggested I try boxing,knowing I had determination despite everything I’d faced.

That single step changed my life, though my true calling turned out to be Muay Thai.

Muay Thai taught me discipline , respect, and self control. It gave me a positive outlet for my emotions and a purpose that reshaped every part of my life.

I’ve opened The Muay Thai academy to share that same life-changing experience with others to show that no matter where you start, you can rewrite your story.

Whether your goal is to get fitter, live healthier, learn self-defence, build confidence, or even compete, I’m here to guide you within safe & fun community.

I’m grateful that you’ve trusted me to be part of your journey together, we’ll push limits, grow stronger, and discover the best version of yourself.