Qualified Goulburn Valley coaches and instructors from various disciplines will take students through situational awareness, escaping grabs and holds, practical self-defence skills, confidence and resilience.
The collective, known as Shepparton Martial Arts Group, includes Red Phoenix Strength Training, GV Muay Thai and Fitness, Orion Jiu Jitsu Academy, Shepparton Jiu Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Academy, Kaizen Dojo’s and Goulburn Valley Boxing Academy.
Their aim is to rally around vulnerable kids who might not want to join an ongoing class, to teach them the basics during the three-hour workshop.
The group says learning martial arts extends beyond being able to defend oneself.
“It’s not always for victim mentality. Kids need mentorship and guidance, too,” Orion Jiu Jitsu Academy’s Jason Farren said.
The group members agreed that their sports offered kids a physical outlet and could prevent them from bullying others or using violence in inappropriate situations.
“It’s controlled aggression in a controlled environment,” GV Muay Thai and Fitness’ Mat Reid said.
Brad Clark, of Kaizen Dojo’s, said there were many sports and clubs in the Goulburn Valley, but the self-defence and fitness community was another one that could help to mould the youth of the region.
The workshop will offer practical skills and aims to empower kids with confidence.
It’s not about learning to fight, but teaching them to protect themselves, stay calm and feel safer in everyday situations.
Red Phoenix Strength Training’s Michaela Skipper said the idea of the multi-disciplinary workshop was to touch on all bases of self-defence.
“All disciplines are unique, but they all give kids confidence,” she said.
“And they’re not all about fighting, they’re just great sports.”
Mr Reid said the workshop would also offer a “good snapshot” of the skills on offer in Shepparton, with coaches having more than 50 combined years of teaching experience.
Kaizen Dojo’s Brad Clark said Shepparton had a “really strong martial arts community”.
“It’s not the first time we’ve collaborated, and it won’t be the last,” he said.
Boxing fundamentals, Muay Thai defensive techniques, Krav Maga real-world self-defence and Brazlilian Jiu Jitsui escapes and ground safety skills will be taught.
The free event for school-aged kids is on Saturday, July 4, from 10am to 1pm at 12 Future Crt (Bay 4), Shepparton.
Register at forms.gle/GgqkGmLW8s6qguot9, as places are limited.
First aid services will be on site.
Kids are asked to wear comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle and snacks.
