This past Monday marked the end of the first twelve week program of Self Defense at the Recreation Outreach Centre. Parents were invited to witness a demonstration of new skills and techniques learned from Sensei Lynn Dafoe and even joined in as potential attackers to see first hand how their child might react if put in a life threatening situation. The enthusiam of the group was visible as they landed roundhouse kicks and practiced escape techniques. "This program is not about teaching kids to fight. More than anything else, it teaches self discipline and respect," said Jennifer Bishop, Centre Director for the ROC. "It helps to have a dedicated teacher who adminsters push-ups if the participants aren't paying attention but first takes the time to show them the proper way of doing them."
Self Defense is one of several new programs made possible with the assistance of the Ministry of Tourism and Recreation and the United Way of Quinte. The ROC plans to run another self defense program in the coming months but is unsure at this time when the start date will be.
Other programs that are starting in January are Introduction to the World of Dance and Gymnastics. Registration for these programs will take place on January 6th at 6:00 pm. Beginning January 5th the new drop-in hours are Monday 4:00-6:00 pm ages 5-10 and Tuesday 4:00-6:00pm ages 11-13. Kids on the ROCK is a new program on Wednesday nights from 6:30-8:00 pm. This club is based on Christian principles for ages 5-12 to learn various skills in a fun and encouraging way. Watch for Youth ALIVE, an awesome new teen night coming on Thursdays. For more information about any of these programs, please contact the ROC at 476-2001.