‘I highly recommend it’
Anti-bullying seminar teaches defence and prevention
Escaping from headlocks and bear hugs are things kids will learn at the anti-bullying defence seminar on Sunday at Integrity Martial Arts in Whitney Pier.
Jeannine Kennedy’s 12-yearold son, Connor KennedyGould, took part in the last seminar on Sept. 25. It’s something she highly recommends.
“Most definitely, 150 per cent ... if any kid can go to it, I highly recommend it. Not only does it teach them good skills they need, it teaches them better self-confidence,” said Kennedy, who lives in Main-a-Dieu.
“I’m totally seeing a change in my son, not only from the seminars but from going to the club.”
The one-hour class is free with a donation for the food bank, for children ages five to 12.
“My son has a lot more confidence after learning these things,” said Kennedy. “He knows if someone is going to pick on him he can stand up for himself and he knows how to do it properly.”
Jimmy Hall, owner of the dojo, mixes techniques from krav maga, taekwondo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu to show kids how to escape holds. He also talks about bullying prevention, like picking good friends, travelling in groups and avoiding situations where there is a potential for conflict.
“There’s no striking, the kids aren’t going to hit the person. I teach a very safe way of escaping without damaging your opponent,” said Hall, who works full time at the Northeast Nova Scotia Correctional Facility in New Glasgow.
“I teach a lot of awareness stuff, like who not to hang out with and where not to be. If a kid doesn’t like you, don’t go to that bus stop if you can. A lot of this is just education stuff — avoid the whole scenario.”
Kennedy also praises Hall for his ability to change his teaching style based on each
student’s personality. If a kid is shy, he’ll approach them differently than he would teach a kid who is outgoing and willing to try anything.
“He interacts great with the kids. I mean phenomenal with the kids. He’s just great. He’s amazing,” she said.
Registering for the seminar is recommended because there is a maximum of 30 spots available. Walk-ins will be accepted if there is space. To get registration forms, email Hall at lucha1800@gmail.com.
“My son has a lot more confidence after learning these things,” said Kennedy. “He knows if someone is going to pick on him he can stand up for himself and he knows how to do it properly.” Jeannine Kennedy