The Chronicle August 17, 1994
Aim is to teach students to protect themselves
Forewamed is forearmed.
That’s the thrust of a series of self-defence courses being offered through the YMCA Family Centre this fall.
Designed for women and children, the courses aim to teach participants how to protect themselves from an attacker, explains coordinator Kelly Walker.
The courses were introduced about a year ago and have since been running on a regular basis.
« They’re taught by Georges Manoli, a policeman with the MUCTC, » W alker said.
Manoli, who holds a bachelor of education degree from McGill University, is the author of two books on assault prevention and lectures extensively in the Montreal area.
« He’ 11 teach a variety of self-defence techniques, For women, sorne of the topics that will be covered are vital striking areas, ground fighting and strategies for handling armed and gang attacks, » Walker said.
Manoli’ s method employs a practical hands-on approach. For example, participants will learn about « power yelling, » a simple but frequently effective means of warding off an assailant.
« When attacked the idea is to be loud, to draw as much attention to yourself as possible, » Walker said.
Knowing how to avoid compromising and potentially dangerous situations is another area that will be addressed, she added.
There are two self-defence courses utilizing the « Manoli Method » that are geared to youth. One is for 10- to 13-year-olds, and there’s a brand new program for children between the ages of six and nine, in which parent participation is required.
« The kids are taught the same skills and go over the same situations, but on a level they can understand, » Walker said.
The sessions will touch on a variety of issues, from identifying risks to « the ways sex offenders lure our children. »
Six- to nine-year-olds attend weekly Saturday classes, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. from Sept. 25 through Nov. 5. Courses for women and older . children will be held Tuesday evenings beginning Aug.27.
Registration is currently under way for YMCA members; registration for non-members starts Monday. The Y Family Centre is located at 230 Brunswick Blvd. in Pointe Claire. For information about these and a wide range of other_ courses being offered this fall, calI 630-9622.