SXM BJJ announces free self-defense classes for special needs students 

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COLE BAY – SXM BJJ is proud to announce a series of free self-defense classes for students with special needs, such as Down’s Syndrome and Autism.

AllanDiLucia-001The classes will be held on Saturday, May 7, 14, 21 and 28 from 10:00am-11:00am at the SXM BJJ dojo a #15 Wellington Road in Cole Bay.

Classes will be conducted by head instructor Melissa Bardfield and visiting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt professor Allan Di Lucia. Di Lucia has years of experience teaching Down’s syndrome students in his native city of Rio de Janeiro. He was sought out by Bardfield due to his extensive work with special needs students.

These classes are offered in conjunction with the Down’s Syndrome St. Maarten and Caribbean Foundation. Parents, guardians and educators can contact the Down’s Syndrome Foundation president Mireya Torrenga to register for the classes. Transportation arrangements are still being worked out.

The free classes are offered as part of SXM BJJ’s community outreach. Participation in all 4 weekly consecutive classes is encouraged and pre-registration is requested.

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For more information about the support services offered by the Down’s Syndrome Foundation contact Torrenga at +1(721) 580-1994 or downsyndromesxmcaribbean@gmail.com. For more information on Jiu Jitsu and Self-Defense classes, contact head instructor Bardfield at +1(721) 580-3894 or info@sxmbjj.com.