Jeff Horn wants anti-bullying self-defence program in schools nationwide
Former world welterweight boxing champion Jeff Horn wants to see his anti-bullying, self-defence program rolled out in schools nationwide.
‘The Hornet’ is an ambassador for the Australian Martial Arts Youth Development Alliance (AMAYDA), a boxing and self-defence pilot program active in 20 Queensland schools. “It's important that these kids develop some resilience and they're able to step up to those bullies and protect themselves,” Horn told 9News.
“If you can save one life out there that’s all that matters.”
Horn spars with a couple of students. 9News
Horn has been open in the past about the bullying he suffered at school.
He’s not advocating in favour of violence in schools, but wants kids to feel confident they can handle themselves in a situation should one arise.
“We're not saying they have to hurt someone, they just have to get out there and learn how to protect themselves.”
Jeff Horn wants all kids to learn self-defence to ward off bullies. 9News
Kids learning self-defence in the AMAYDA program. 9News
A recent report found one in four students - nearly a million children - are bullied at school every year. The cost for support networks and kids skipping school is more than $500 million annually.
Student Lauren McKenzie told 9News the program taught her to “stand up for yourself and other people”.
“Knowing that you have even just a little bit of training you know you can handle a situation when it arises,” another student said.
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