BAINBRIDGE – Bainbridge-based kickboxers Laura Swanson, 32, and Josh Soliva, 19, have announced their intention to represent the Bainbridge Island Boxing Club at the World Kickboxing Association’s World Championship Tournament in Spain this November, having earned their spot on the U.S. national team after competing and winning in their respective weight classes at the National Championships in Richmond, Virginia in March.

“For a gym this size hidden away in an obscure corner of Bainbridge Island, one might ask if it’s something in the water,” boxing club spokeswoman Elizabeth Dourley said of the club’s prominent entrance onto the international scene. “More likely, it’s a combination of unparalleled training on the part of [Club owner and head trainer Ben] Little, and unbridled commitment from every athlete fortunate enough to be part of his team.”

Support of the club and its fighters has not been limited to island fans, either, Dourley said.

Bainbridge Boxing Club has been lauded by Gov. Jay Inslee, she added, who has kept actively abreast of the fighters’ progress.

Additionally, a group is reportedly forming within the Bainbridge Island community which plans to travel to Spain as spectators in support of the club.

“The stakes are high and competing at this level will be the source of much pride for the island that raised these national champs and  potential world champions,” Dourley said. “Perhaps, the best story comes from the absolute irony of two potential world champions being trained and nurtured on an island like Bainbridge, where such a sport stands on its own, far from lacrosse and soccer, [and] often misjudged and misunderstood.”