December 20, 2009, North Vancouver - The Fraser Valley Avalanche are a whole lot tougher - and street smarter - after a cardio kickboxing class and a self-defense lesson provided by world champion kickboxer Sensei Ingrid Katzberg and other black belts of Champions Martial Arts and Kickboxing Academy (www.championswayoflife.com) on Sunday Dec 20th in North Vancouver.
"We went into the class expecting to sweat a little. We ended up sweating alot!" former team Canada goaltender Anderson (Langley) said. "I have participated in sport kickboxing for two years now, and its the only sport I've found that raises my level of fitness while challenging my mind, and most importantly to me, it's fun." Anderson also attributes much of her flexibility, balance and overall strength to the sport. "As a goaltender, you must really know your body - your abilities and limitations. I have learned that martial arts allows you to focus on your body - controlling your movements, listening to its needs and understanding how to push yourself. I would recommend this type of cross-training to any serious athlete."
Following the cardio class, Sensei Ingrid also provided a self-defense seminar to the Avalanche players. "As women, we must be aware of our surroundings, our presence and the fact that people can be out there to hurt you. I have been involved in martial arts for 20 years and I still will not walk alone in the back alley" Sensei explains. She goes on to say that if you've never practiced hitting someone, or know where to hit them in self-defense, you may freeze if ever the time comes to act. The Avalanche players got the opportunity to practice some moves on each other, and team 'mascot' black belt Paul Ferguson. Langley's 5'11" Michelle Peters was impressed by little 5'3" Dani Brassington's (North Vancouver) ability to throw her to the ground during one self-defense exercise: "Who knows, by teaching us a few easy moves, she (Sensei Ingrid) might have saved one of our lives."
The Fraser Valley Avalanche ringette is a member of the National Ringette League and represent the highest caliber of ringette athletes in BC whom, each year, compete for a spot to represent their division at the annual NRL national championships. Currently, three athletes are in contention for the 2010 National Woman’s team that will compete at the World Championships in Finland next November. Melanie Thomas (North Vancouver), Jennifer Wakefield (Langley) and Jill Lange (Vancouver) will be attending the next selection camp in Kitchener Ontario January 2-3, 2010.
Information: Shannon Anderson, media liason 604-787-4329 info@fraservalleyavalanche.com www.fraservalleyavalanche.com
