Defensive Edge Welcomes New Junior Black Belts

Defensive Edge Martial Arts Academy Welcomes Eight New Junior Black Belts and One New Second Degree Junior Black Belt

Wakefield, MA (October 10, 2013) After six plus years of intensive training and commitment,  8 local students recently earned their Junior Black Belts from Defensive Edge Martial Arts Academy.  In addition, Brett Senders, of Reading, earned his 2nd degree Junior Black Belt. 

“This is a great achievement for each student who demonstrates their hard work, commitment and perseverance. I am very proud of them,” said Rick Alford, founder and head instructor at Defensive Edge. 

The recently promoted 1st Degree Jr. Black Belts include: Wakefield residents Joseph DeBenedictis, Dante Bucci, Neil Smith, Brett Butler, and Jake Levine. Stevie Lafferty and Cali Lafferty both of Peabody, and Kevin McMaster of Saugus also reached this major achievement.

To be awarded the Junior Black Belt and a 2nd degree Junior Black Belt, the students are challenged, both physically and mentally, for 3 hours by instructors and other students.   After the Jr. Black Belts undergo a difficult physical portion called “Hurricanes”, they are required to teach a variety of techniques to demonstrate their understanding, communication skills and confidence in their abilities. 

In addition, there is an intense sparring section of the test which requires the Junior Black Belt candidates to defend themselves from over 100 attacks from classmates in safely simulated, yet realistic self-protection scenarios.  In the final section of the test, the candidates spar with full force against the instructors who challenge the students physically and mentally without hurting them.

“This is a very demanding test, but these kids have been training here for most of their lives and have attained the skills and self-reliance necessary to succeed,” explains Alford.  “Our Junior Black Belts walked away with a sense of pride and confidence which is what our school is all about,” he explained.

About Defensive Edge Martial Arts Academy in Wakefield MA

Founded in 1999, Defensive Edge (www.defensive-edge.com) is a modern, multifaceted martial arts academy that incorporates four highly effective disciplines: Small Circle Jujitsu (Modern Self Protection), Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Submission Wrestling), Muay Thai (Thai Kick Boxing) and MMA or Mixed Martial Arts). Perfect for all skill levels and age groups, its programs provide students with cutting edge techniques and tactics for real world self-protection, fitness, combat sports competition and personal growth.  The school serves students in Wakefield, Reading, Melrose, Stoneham, Saugus, Lynnfield and surrounding communities.