BEEN THERE, DONE THAT
I KNOW HOW TO DEFEND MYSELF, KIND OF
By PATRICK MURPHY
I have never been in fights before, as I am a nonconfrontational person. However, I recently learned how to defend myself if, or when, the time comes. I was educated in some jiu jitsu self-defense at Awesome Martial Arts Academy in Clarksville. Owner, and black-belt master, Brad Haynes taught me a few the moves.
We started with the mount position, where I was around Haynes. It was an interesting and uncomfortable position to be in as I was sitting on his chest with my legs toward his sides. From that position, Haynes showed me how to escape it with an Upa. This is a bridge-and-roll escape technique where you trap your foe’ s arms on the same side and the corresponding leg, for me it was locking my leg with that of Haynes. Then, we switched positions.
Boy it was hard to get out of that position! Haynes is slightly taller and stronger than me. It took a while for me, but with some slight help I eventually succeeded in getting out of it.
The next technique Haynes showed me was an armbar. He showed me how to use the technique by applying pressure to my elbow by grasping my arm and moving my body to force my arm in an uncomfortable position. That hurt!
Finally, Haynes showed me how to take down an opponent. The throw is called Uchi mata, which is a classic throw in jiu jitsu in which the attacker heaves their opponent over their thigh. When he showed this technique, I screamed as I was thrown in the air and lightly dropped onto the padded blue mats of the training room.
It took me some time to harness the move myself, but ultimately I was able to throw Haynes in the short time we had together. I don’ t know if I will be able to remember how to use it, but I’ ll try if I’ m ever in a tight spot.
Again, we can say that we’ ve been there and done that!
Contributors
Tom May is a freelance writer who has written for the News and Tribune for more than 10 years. An avid sports enthusiast, Tom also teaches as an adjunct instructor at Indiana University Southeast.
Rebecca Carlton-Mielke teaches in communication studies at IU Southeast and serves on the Sellersburg Parks Board.
Brandi Jones is a seasoned marketing and design professional who leads the marketing team for a local engineering firm. She regularly contributes her graphic design skills to the News and Tribune, Floyd County Parks and Recreation and other clients.
PAGE NO. 6 NEWS AND TRIBUNE SPORTS MAGAZINE MAY / JUNE 2026