Mattapoisett Holding Free Women’s Self-Defense Course

Women of the SouthCoast are invited to attend a unique – and free – event that aims to strengthen their ability to handle threatening situations through hands-on techniques with situational awareness, decision-making under stress and recognizing pre-fight indicators.

David Eaton from South Coast Self Defense will lead a free two-hour women's-only seminar alongside fellow co-workers and officers from the Mattapoisett Police Department on February 16.

Community members are encouraged to sign up for the class, which will provide useful information and techniques.

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"For me this is a great opportunity just because self-defense is one of those things that not a lot of people understand is an important skill set until it's too late," Eaton said. "Just because it's labeled as a 'women's only' self defense course doesn't mean it's easy. It just means techniques or situations that would be specific to women. An example would be a hair pull."

He and the team work hard to create a safe, welcoming environment for women to learn new skills.

"We'll be going over basic striking, how to throw an effective punch, elbows, knees, front kicks, as well as techniques that are specific to women," Eaton said.

"It's not about staying in a fight, it's trying to do what you can to quickly get out of a situation," he said.

Girls and women ages 15 and older can attend the event. It's important to note, you do not need to be physically fit to take part and learn from this opportunity.

The Women's Only Self-Defense Seminar will be held Sunday, February 16 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Mattapoisett Knights of Columbus.

The class is free, but donations for the Women's Shelter in New Bedford are welcome.

Those interested in attending should email LLima@MattapoisettPolice.com.