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And Jerome have a deep passion for teaching self-defence and martial arts, and their commitment to empowering their students is evident in the academy's core philosophy.
South African Self Defence Academy's focus is not on competition, but on practical self-defence skills that can be used in real-life situations. The instructors emphasize unarmed defence, armed defence using traditional weapons, and Brazilian JiuJitsu for ground-fighting defence and application. The academy's program is designed specifically for the South African environment, with a strong emphasis on street survival.
Students at South African Self Defence Academy range from 4 to 18 years old, with the opportunity to achieve a black belt in Mixed Martial Arts by the age of 16. After achieving their black belt, students can then focus on Brazilian JiuJitsu with the Apex Jiujitsu Academy, with the opportunity to earn their black belt in this discipline as well.
The founders, Jerome Petersen and Terry-Lynn Hawtrey, bring over 35 years of experience to the academy. They began their training under Grand Master Denis St John Thompson and continued their apprenticeship under Grand Master Hugh St John Thompson. Their extensive background in traditional Japanese Karate, Okinawan weapons, survival training, and natural therapies has shaped the unique approach of South African Self Defence Academy.
With a strong emphasis on discipline, respect, and individual attention within each student's limits, South African Self Defence Academy provides a supportive and empowering environment for students to grow and develop their self-defence skills. Whether a student is looking to build confidence, learn practical self-defence techniques, or achieve a black belt in a martial art, South African Self Defence Academy offers a comprehensive program for students of all ages and abilities.