Defensive Street Tactics Seminar

On 24 February, LTG Ferriter co-hosted a Defensive Street Tactics Seminar at Champions Martial Arts. The afternoon event brought together four coaches, 26 students sheriffs, police, and corrections officers; as well as, 15-20 Champions Martial Arts teammates, and 10-15 spouses of sheriffs and police from towns of Puyallup, Seattle, Steilacoom and in Pierce County.

This type of training event is designed to help first responders build self confidence while acknowledging the immense pressure and responsibilities they face across daily activities. The purpose of the seminar was to teach fundamentals of street self defense in order to provide alternative approaches to handling both daily and  dangerous situations for first responders.

The seminar honored and raised funds in memory of Deputy Sheriff Daniel McCartney killed in the line of duty. Deputy Sheriff McCartney was shot and killed after responding to a burglary in progress. Deputy McCartney was the first officer on scene and became engaged in a foot pursuit of at least one subject. The man opened fire on Deputy McCartney during the foot pursuit, mortally wounding him. Deputy McCartney was a U.S. Navy veteran. He had served with the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department for three years and had previously served with the Hoquiam Police Department for six years. He is survived by his wife and three sons. A raffle held in his honor earned $1,500 for his surviving family.

LTG Ferriter reflected on the event “Here is what I found to be remarkable: While I was looking for ways to motivate them, most had super high morale and want to be part of a high performing team. These [Police and Sheriffs] are full of life, selfless servants who were really curious to learn. The community wrapped their arms around these men and women.”

The instruction was delivered by: Mike Ferriter (Alliance Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt), John Cofer (Ferriter Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt), Eric Shields (Ferriter Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt), and Josh Langford (Royce Gracie Brown Belt).

In preparation for the event, LTG Ferriter and other coaches gathered to review techniques and instruction for the event. As head professor of Ferriter Jiu Jitsu program, he emphasized technique as well as the ways other instructors could connect activities to the principles of respect, character, and courage. See the video of instructors preparing with a thorough warm up below. John Cofer, a Ferriter Jiu Jitsu black belt, is the Head Instructor at Champions Martial Arts. Champions Martial Arts is located in Puyallup, WA and offers training in several forms of martial arts; taekwondo, jiu jitsu for adults and for kids, as well as judo.

Inspiring leadership through Jiu Jitsu is one of several core programs of focus for the Ferriter Group. The Ferriter Group is available for speaking engagements and business development. Supporting veterans and veteran-owned businesses is also a key aspect of the Ferriter Group’s endeavors. Learn more about the ways the Ferriter Group helps veterans find success in business and in their communities. Get it touch to learn how we can help you integrate Hands-On Inspired Leadership sessions into your team’s development.