On Saturday 26th January, Wiltshire Martial Arts (Seend Aikido Club) delivered a self-defence course at Atworth Youth Club.
The course was organized by Dawn Rossi, delivered by Matt Hill and ably assisted by David Stacey.
The participants, aged between 11 and 16, learn’t the simple principles of self-defence, practiced applying the principles in confrontational situations and learn’t the most important factor of all, how to avoid dangerous situations altogether.
The use of force is always a last resort, and the participants understood this point well.
Dawn Rossi, the Youth Club leader said, ‘Matt’s self-defence course exceeded my expectations. Judging by the laughter and questions all of the children were completely engaged from start to finish. I sat in on the whole course and it is so beneficial in teaching people to stay safe and avoid the danger of being attacked that I think that it should be mandatory for everyone!’
Matt says that Self Defence is mostly about being smart, staying aware and learning some simple principles that will stay with you and keep you safe for the rest of your life.
Matt is fully CRB cleared, A Nationally accredited Self Defence Coach and 5th Dan Aikido Instructor and Systema Instructor.
Matt teaches self-defence awareness and skills for organisations, schools and Individuals and teaches regular Martial Arts classes at Christie Miller Sports Centre in Melksham on Monday, Thursday and Saturday Mornings. For further Details contact Matt on 07584025206 or hillmattc@gmail.com.
Here is what the participants had to say:
‘It has really helped me’ – Sophie Bailey
‘It is a great course to learn the best ways to disrupt, disable and escape from an attacker’ – Holly Leake
‘This is great for your own safety and it follows the law’ – Gabriel
‘It is so easy to learn and you have a lot of fun’ – Lily De Malpas-Player
‘It was great fun very useful and an interesting course’ – Tom Yateman
‘Its really easy and fun’ – Tommy De Malpas-Player
‘It was good and I will use what I have learnt’ – Simon Hornby
‘Fun, exciting and you get to protect yourself from anything!’ – Tabitha Williams
‘Very useful to have in your mind’ – Maisie Leake
‘The course was very interesting, it was useful and I have learn’t a lot’ – Jessica Rendell
‘This course really helps you to defend yourself it is a great way to learn. Amazing course!’ – Abby Pearce
‘A fun non-violent way to become threat-free in the open free world’ – Harry Heptinstall