Eighteen young martial artists participated in an intense, physically demanding jujitsu training class Saturday at the Markham School Age Center.
The session, part of Fort Belvoir's Child, Youth and School Services' martial arts program, encompasses a variety of self-defense disciplines and techniques, including Japanese jujutsu, Kodokan judo, bully-proofing and Gracie Brazilian jiu-jitsu, according to lead instructor Dave De Atley.
De Atley, a certified Modern Army Combatives Program instructor, led the students through a variety of warm-up, rolling and sparring exercises with the assistance of fellow instructors Chris Herrera, Chad Osinga and Michael Keber during the one-hour session. The participants were then treated to a special demonstration by guest and Kung Fu practitioner, Dallas De Atley.
"Dallas has been practicing Wing Chun Kung Fu for 22 years -- the style of Kung Fu that Bruce Lee studied under his (renowned Chinese martial arts) instructor Yip Man," De Atley said of his brother.
Dallas De Atley demonstrated a number of striking and stance techniques during his interactive presentation and provided the students opportunities to apply those maneuvers during their sparring sessions.
Dave De Atley said the new jujitsu course has drawn a large turnout since it began in January.
"The class is bigger than ever," he said, adding the classes offer students the opportunity to participate in tournament competition as well as seminars with famed Brazilian jiu-jitsu and mixed martial arts fighters Royce and Rodrigo Gracie.
Jujitsu classes are offered at the Markham SAC gym to children ages 3-5 and 6-18. The sessions are Wednesdays, 6:15-7 p.m. for students ages 3-5; and 7-8 p.m. for students ages 6-18. Saturday classes are also available from 9:15-10 a.m. for youth ages 3-5; and 10-11 a.m. for students ages 6-18. All participants must be registered with Child, Youth, and School Services and the cost is $55 per month.
For more information and to register call Parent Central Services at (703) 805-9146.
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