Troy Ostapiw, who grew up in a challenging neighbourhood in Regina and faced bullying as a child, has transformed his past struggles into a mission to help others. With the support of his neighbours, he learned martial arts and went on to work with esteemed organizations like local police, the RCMP, and the Canadian Armed Forces. Today, Ostapiw helps community members learn self-defence and build self-esteem. As a trainer at the Cathedral Area Community Association, he runs a self-defence program open to people aged 10 to 75. The program combines education with fun, focusing on community engagement and safety.
Motivated by his experiences with bullying, Ostapiw aims to support individuals who have faced similar challenges by teaching them self-defence. He acknowledges the increasing pressures of online bullying and its impact on young people, viewing self-defence as a way to instill confidence and self-worth. Over the past 30 years, he has taught self-defence worldwide, working with organizations such as the Saskatchewan Police College and the RCMP, where he has instructed defensive tactics and combative strategies. His edge weapons program was officially incorporated into Canadian Armed Forces training in 2015.
One of the milestones in Ostapiw’s career was training close-quarter combat instructors at a Canadian Armed Forces base in Alberta. This achievement underscored the impact of his work and the value of his program. Over the years, his training has empowered countless individuals, many of whom have shared stories of successfully defending themselves in dangerous situations.
One story that deeply affected Ostapiw involved a local Regina man who intervened during an attack on a woman by three individuals over a decade ago. After the attackers turned on him, he was hospitalized and left in a coma. Following his recovery, the man sought Ostapiw’s guidance to regain his confidence and strength. Sharing his story during a training session was an emotional moment that highlighted the life-changing impact of self-defence education.
Ostapiw underscores the importance of better self-defence education within the community. He teaches people how to recognize potential danger and advises simple actions such as crossing the street, using a car as a barrier, or seeking safety in a nearby store. The emphasis is always on avoiding confrontation whenever possible and prioritizing safety over material possessions.
Situational awareness is another critical area of focus in his training. Many people, especially in downtown Regina, are distracted by their phones, which makes them more vulnerable to threats. Ostapiw teaches techniques such as using presence, communication, and de-escalation to prevent confrontations. If physical force becomes unavoidable, everyday items like car keys or backpacks can be used defensively. He also provides education on Canada’s laws regarding the use of force, emphasizing the importance of understanding what is considered excessive and encouraging non-violent solutions whenever possible.
To join the program, participants can contact the Cathedral Association for registration details. The program runs twice a year for a few weeks. Ostapiw has inspired many, with some even crediting his training for saving their lives.
Source: SaskToday
