Manhattan PD To Offer Free Women's Self-Defense Class Saturday

MANHATTAN, IL — Women in Manhattan ages 13 and older are invited to attend a free self-defense introductory class Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. at Anna McDonald School, 200 Second St. in Manhattan. Girls ages 13-17 need to be accompanied by an adult.

The class will be led by kickboxing and fitness instructor Nick Komarchu, according to a news release from the Village of Manhattan. Several Manhattan police officers will also be in attendance.

“It is unfortunate we live in an age in which vulnerable girls and women can become targets of physical or sexual attacks,” said Manhattan Police Chief Jeff Wold. “Self-defense training not only helps you protect yourself, but it can be beneficial to learn how to defend yourself, so I encourage all women to seek out some type of self-defense or martial arts training.”

The class will include instruction on verbal commands, basic blocks, strikes, escapes and ground fighting techniques. Those interested in taking additional classes following the free introductory class will be referred to area instructors.

“As a husband and father of a young daughter, I worry about the safety of the women in my life and I want them to be safe and prepared to defend themselves should the situation arise,” said Manhattan Mayor Mike Adrieansen. “Any women can gain confidence from self-defense training from teenage girls to grandmothers. This training could help in one’s everyday life, and it can do more for you than just protect you.”

For more information and to register for the class, contact the Manhattan Police Department at (815) 478-4408.