(ANGOLA) - Residents looking to boost their confidence and personal safety skills will have a chance later this month, as the Angola Parks and Recreation Department hosts a free self-defense class at Commons Hall.
The class is scheduled for Tuesday, February 24, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., and is open to young adults and adults. Organizers say the session is designed to be practical, empowering and accessible to people with no prior self-defense or martial arts experience.
According to the department, participants will learn how to recognize potentially dangerous situations, protect themselves if confronted, and remain calm under pressure. The goal is to build awareness, confidence and real-world skills that can be used in everyday life.
The class will be taught by Jay Thompson and Jodie Thompson, longtime martial artists and experienced self-defense instructors.
Jay Thompson is a retired Fort Wayne Police Department officer with 33 years of service. He began martial arts training at age 12 and is currently an eighth-degree black belt in Shuri-ryu. Over the years, he has owned and operated a dojo in Fort Wayne and has taught martial arts and self-defense for decades.
Jodie Thompson also began training at age 12 and holds a third-degree black belt in Shuri-ryu. She has operated a dojo for several years, taught both children and adults, and has led numerous women's self-defense classes.
Parks officials say the class is especially valuable for teens and adults preparing for greater independence, but stress that the information is useful for people of all ages.
The class is free to attend and will take place at Commons Hall. Those interested are encouraged to share the opportunity with friends or family members who may benefit. For more information, residents can contact the Angola Parks and Recreation Department directly.