In The News

 

Courtesy of the Bomanville Statesman and the Ajax/Pickering News Advertiser - April 11, 2004

Grappling with success Darrell LaFrance to be inducted into World Martial Arts Hall of Fame Mar 31, 2004 Brad Kelly, Staff Writer BOWMANVILLE - It just so happens Darrell LaFrance is in line for a couple of awards in May - one is guaranteed while the other is most likely a lock. As the head coach of the Canadian men's grappling team, he will lead a contingent of five members into the World Championships in Florida where Canada is considered the premiere country in the sport. In winning three consecutive world titles, the Canadian team hasn't lost a match. LaFrance is too humble to credit that streak to the coaching. He is sure to be humbled on the same trip, though, when he is inducted into the World Martial Arts Hall of Fame during a ceremony held in conjunction with the worlds. "Several 10th degree black belts who I've taught and trained with over the years nominated me," says the 43-year-old Bowmanville resident of the process leading to his induction. "Back in September I got a call and was told that I had been inducted. I had no idea I was even nominated. "I was very surprised and honoured that somebody would think of me for that." A native American Indian, LaFrance's great-grandfather passed down the tradition of martial arts fighting through the family, and over time, ju-jitsu and grappling were combined. LaFrance became the first person to teach the grappling portion of ju-jitsu in Canada, opening his first instructional school in 1983. Since then, he has become the highest ranking grappling instructor in Canada, and one of the most renowned teachers worldwide. His expertise has taken him to France, Norway, England and Austria to share his knowledge. "When I'm teaching people who don't speak English, I go over the moves and show them proper technique, but it's certainly difficult in a fun and challenging way. "Most pick up on it quite easily." His specialty is grappling, which mainly centres on defending while on the ground. "The whole idea is to concentrate on using the other person's strength and momentum. You can defend yourself without hurting your opponent if you choose not to, but you have that option. "You don't have to be big or strong to do it. It's more like a martial art science." It also helps build self-esteem and confidence, a couple of characteristics LaFrance admits to lacking while growing up. "It develops self confidence and self discipline, which I really needed. I lacked a lot of self-confidence, and wasn't a big kid so I always got bullied. It made a huge difference in helping me believe in myself." He has also been able to apply his martial arts knowledge on the job as a Durham Regional police officer working out of the Bowmanville detachment. "As a policeman, when we arrest somebody, there are those who want to fight and the first place we take them is to the ground," he says of the grappling technique applied to diffuse any potential dangerous situation. To that extent, a number of police forces south of the border are interested in tapping into his expertise, including the Ohio St. Troopers and the U.S. Coast Guard. A little closer to home, he passes on his expertise with Clarington Martial Arts (905-697-1473) and the Canadian Centre for Grappling Arts in Pickering (905-420-6449).

Ron Pietroniro, Statesman photo Darrell LaFrance will be inducted into the World Martial Arts Hall of Fame in May for his accomplishments and dedication to martial arts. The ceremony in Florida will coincide with the World Championships for grappling. LaFrance serves as coach of the Canadian entry.