History

R.A.D. Systems is a functioning network of dedicated self defense instructors that was established in 1989. This alliance of Instructors believes that self defense should be easy to learn, easy to retain, and relatively easy to employ during real confrontational situations. This alliance believes that self defense training should be accessible and affordable for all women and children. They believe that their efforts to oppose violence will be more effective together, than as individuals. As a network they can assist one another with programs, equipment, references, experiences and insight. But most importantly, they honor each others teachings, allowing each of them to give every participant they train, a lifetime return and practice invitation anywhere there is a R.A.D. program being offered – Cost Free!

• 1989 started teaching RAD at WFU for non-academic credit.
• At first it was just a handful of students, then that grew to 50-80 students a year. At those numbers we were still teaching more students than most other colleges and universities.
• Meager beginnings (fight suit was modified football gear with baseball shin guards and student gear was beefed up Lacrosse gear).
• RAD has been taught everywhere from the Landscaping building (moving tractors out for room) to Bridger Field House, to Wait Chapel, Fraternity lounges and now our most recent location Luter Hall – lounge area.
• Created syllabus that went through Women and Gender Studies advisory board then on to the Academic Dean’s office. Class is now taught through Health & Exercise Science.
• Now we teach approximately 350 students a year – 10 sections each in both Fall and Spring semesters.