February 27, 2009

SIUC to offer self-defense training for women

by Pete Rosenbery

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Southern Illinois University Carbondale is offering a nationally recognized program for women that teach self-defense tactics as well as techniques to reduce the risk of an attack.

The R.A.D. or Rape Aggression Defense system training, begins Saturday, March 21.


Media Advisory

Reporters and photographers are welcome to cover the training sessions. The last session on Sunday, March 29, will include simulations where instructors don the “Red Man Outfit” and participants demonstrate lessons learned in the course. To arrange interviews or for more information contact SIUC police officer Scott Miller at 618/453-3771.


The training is free and open to any female 12 and older, although participants under 17 require parental approval. Participants should wear something comfortable for the classes.

SIUC’s Department of Public Safety offers the classes. The application deadline is March 16.

The sessions run from 1 to 4 p.m. in the assembly room at the Student Recreation Center. Dates for the program are March 21, 22, 28, and 29.

The program focuses on mental planning and preparation before a woman finds herself in trouble, and also provides a simple physical training program. Police officers certified as R.A.D. instructors teach the program, which is not a martial arts program.

The comprehensive course begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and avoidance, progressing to the basics of hands-on defense training. The program also offers techniques for escaping and surviving an attack.

The program can provide women with the knowledge to make an educated decision about resistance. The program is not just about how to confront an attacker; the key is risk reduction, avoidance, and having a mental plan that outlines safety techniques, said SIUC police officer Scott Miller.

The department has provided more than 20 R.A.D. classes; usually offered twice a year. One of the department’s primary concerns is the safety of women and the campus community, he said.

For more information or to register, call 618/453-3771.