University of Richmond Athletics
Women's Lacrosse Takes Part In Self Defense Class
11/10/2010 | Women's Lacrosse
Nov. 10, 2010
UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND, Va. -
The Spiders recently took part in a self-defense class taught by the University of Richmond Police Department.
Sargent Alfred Johnson started teaching self-defense classes for young women after the popularity in classes steadily rose after a request from the Delta Sigma Theta sorority.
"Learning self-defense is more relevant than ever," said head coach Stephy Samaras. It's a constant thought in females' minds when they're walking on a campus at night."
Officers of the police department showed the girls how to maneuver out of chokeholds, wrist grabs, headlocks and more. The techniques were designed to create the most pain for the attacker given the size of the female.
Officers also gave the team pointers on how to avoid precarious situations at night. Some tips included: not talking on cell phones, not walking with head down or hands full.
"All these techniques build confidence," said Samaras. "The moves also give them an inner strength that I want my players to have."
Richmond opens its 2011 season Feb. 13 against Maryland at Robins Stadium.
