The KPW Queenstown Pro Wrestling Academy has invited men and women to try out in Fight Science on July 28 from 5.30pm-7.30pm.
Professional wrestler and head trainer Marc "Marcus Kool" Perry, of Queenstown, said yesterday he was keen to bolster the core group of four regular trainee wrestlers for the fun of the code and the opportunity to represent Queenstown in the North Island, where wrestling was growing in popularity.
The regular wrestlers worked as an accountant, a retailer, a metal-worker and a chairlift operator, which showed the discipline appealed to everyone, he said.
"We need more wrestlers. They're hard to find. It's not one of those regular activities like football or rugby.
"People don't realise there are local companies and people who are interested in it."
Perry said aspiring wrestlers needed to have some confidence and a sense of humour.
Some athleticism and any previous experience of sport were also helpful.
The goal will be to earn Perry's approval to perform for paying audiences on the regional, national and potentially international stages.
Dressed in gym clothes, new arrivals will be taught basic holds, falls, submissions and how to run the ropes by Perry, with the assistance of Troy "T-Rex" Crosbie. The Invercargill wrestler is now pursing his career in the ring after his debut in Wellington in May.
Perry, a 24-year-old Englishman, represented his home country in the Rise of the Warriors tournament in Brisbane in May. He will compete in Los Angeles, San Francisco and possibly Mexico City in September, before entering more wrestling contests in New Zealand in October.
Marc Perry can be contacted on 021 254-8537.
