Clint Bodungeon
"Now I know why ufc and mixed martial arts won't work in the street. Damian's reputation precedes him and I was not disappointed"
Houston, TX

Mike Lawlor
"This is the most fun I had in years ... I'm looking forward to teaching this when I retire."
Bloomfield, NJ

Michael Archangel
"I drove seven hours and I'm would have driven twice as far for half as much!"
Uniontown, Pennsylvania

Joe Landry
"This training is second to none."
Fort McMurray, AB

Scott Compton
"I came a long way and am glad I did."
Boise, ID

Tom Lairson
"I got everything from the self defense training and more than what I expected"
Lakewood, NM

Reuben Bean
"Knowledge combined with realistic self defense training make it work."
South Hampton, Bermuda

"The Best Self Defense Training I've Ever Seen!"
Hi Damian,
I recently received module 1 from the "The Self Defence Training System" (Wednesday 5th March 2008). To date I would say that the material I received is the best that I have purchased or even seen! Everything about the product/module is "First Class", product presentation, training content, and the instruction from yourself. "It definitely is first class"!
How many products are their out there, where firstly you watch a Instructional DVD, you then go onto watch the Practice and Drills DVD and then you are provided with a Training manual that takes you by the hand and shows/tells you how to practice and how to train the drills. "It could not be any easier".
"Great work to you and all those involved in this project Damian". I can not wait until I receive module 2!
Kind Regards and Thank You,
Andrew Hannah, Northern Ireland, UK.

"There is No Short Cut, Only the Truth"
Dear Damian,
What you are doing now is a noble thing, your contributions to the society and public through yourself defense program are immeasurable. You are giving people the tools to help themselves. They understand there is no 'short cut', but now they have a path through the woods.
Cheers,
Akmal from Malaysia

"Woman Finds the Time for Self Defense"
I have trained in Tae Kwon Do for 5 years, City Centre Boxing for 1 year and Hapkido & grappling for 1 year. I attend University full time and access their gym 6 days a week; so, as it stands my training now consists of cardio, weight training and endurance. At this time, my primary goal is to be the winner in an aversive situation; it is great to hear that self defense can be learned on my own; as I do not have the time available to me to resume martial arts training; you have inspired hope within myself; and for that I thank you.
Have a great day,
Lisa Halley, Canada

"Man Builds His Own "Dojo" Around The Self Defense Training System"
Hello Damian,
All I can say is Wow! I got to preview Module One with a friend and I REALLY like it.
We started working out together and are getting some incredible results (we're even looking to expand our workout area with some mats!)
Thanks again, and I can't wait for Module 2!
Don Witt, Michigan

"BJJ Fighter Finds He Can Still Train Injured"
The Self Defense Training System is great and it's especially timely for me. I've been training BJJ for almost 10 years and I've got a sports hernia that has kept me from any rolling since November. Since I received the SDTS, I've been able to train with your materials even with the injury. I especially like the "how to train" aspect of it.
Best of luck with the program, I'm looking forward to the rest of it.
James Nesbitt, Detroit, MI

"Blackwater Instructor Puts The Self Defense Training System to the Test!"
Hello Damian,
This is Mitchell McCray out here in Afghanistan thanks a lot I received the package you sent the DVD and reading material are great, I use it as reference material. All of what you have in your first Module "Essential Self Defense" I have been teaching out here with great success! I look forward to receiving the next package and returning home in order to train with you!
Thanks again,
Mitchell McCray
Primary Combatives Instructor
Blackwater worldwide
Afghan Border Police Training Program
Afghanistan

"Life Long Martial Artists and Retired Chicago Police Officer finds a Home in The Self Defense Company Professional Instructor Program"
Hi Damian,
I have to tell you that I really admire your program. The actual training format and sequence and techniques are nothing new to me. I didn't get the chance to tell you but I've been 'into' reality self defense probably longer than most, if not all, of your constituency.
For historical reference, I've been at war with 'traditional martial arts' training since the beginning and have made 'enemies' along the way. All through my traditional 'rank' advancements and after training I would come back to the dojo after a hard day as a Chicago Police Officer and dare to argue with the sensei about the fact that most of the stuff he was brainwashing the students with just didn't work in the real stinking street. Because I was just out there and tried it for real! This, of course, was heresy! But then after I became a 'traditional black belt' and competed and routinely beat them at their own game, some of them began to listen.
All these '8th Dan masters' really used to get angry at me. But just as you do, I felt they were doing a disservice to people by not stretching their school lessons to include real self defense training. I mean, you can show people something that really works and is worth something and still make money can't you?
I was often accused of having 'no respect' for the arts. However that was not true. Martial arts training has literally saved my life on way more than a few occasions. It proved more valuable in the mental discipline value of it...but I just didn't like they way some of these guys were hiding the truth. I learned the serious reality difference between the martial 'art' form, that these guys were trying to pass off as some supernatural 'mystical power', and serious kill or be killed kinetic bodily interaction which is what really happens on the street. I saw it happen day after day on the mean streets for many years.
...nevertheless, I and a few others remained under the radar for years and those who accomplished in the refusing to sell-out to ridiculous "day care" programs and the like. My main point is that I have been waiting for something like this for a long time: a progressive movement designed to eventually 'trump' the traditional martial arts fantasy world and bring the physical defense training paradigm into the new millennium.
And you are leading it! This is great! I'm also even more impressed with your business plan approach to this. You attack every angle from magazines to computer ads to market guidance, to hands on instruction.
And you are on it and all over it incessantly. This must obviously be the way you fight, nuclear bomb style, and is obviously the key to being a winner. And I'm with you on it.
Thanks Again,
Pete Lipa, Instructor
The Self Defense Company, Colona WI

"Finally a Direct and Honest Approach To Self Defense Training"
Damian,
I wanted to thank you for the excellent information you are sharing in The Self Defense Training System. I had ordered another close combat training course recently and I can honestly say that I learned more from Module 1 "Essential Self Defense" than I did from the entire package of fluff I received from the other company!
Your teaching style is direct, honest and you don't hold back from giving the students more than their monies worth. I compliment you on your ability to take information and break it down into digestible bites that can be learned quickly and easily.
Keep up the good work and again, thank you.
Walter R. Heinze, Arizona

"This is just like the Close Combat They Taught in the Foreign Legion"
Damian,
The methods I saw in The Self Defense Training System Module 1 seem to be about the same as my step dad taught me from the French Foreign Legion in the 1960's. All the techniques are simple, basic but very effective. This is top notch training a lot of shock and awe like the training we received in the SAS(British Special Air Services).
Again, thank you for your understanding and customer service; you seem to be one of the honest traders on the net (as you know there are a lot of crooks out there).
Very Best Regards,
Roy in the UK

Disabled Woman Finds Strength With The Self Defense Company
Dear Damian,
I must commend you on your dedication to your passion. I read every article you send me and find myself quite impressed with your words and dedication. I am a 43 year old disabled female. I use a cane and have chronic pain in my lower back and both legs, more so in the knees. My upper body strength is pretty good; I lift small weights every morning. I believe the self defense training system will be beneficial to me as a disabled person. I often think that if I were to ever get mugged I would surely be screwed because I literally can't run to get away. It is a big fear for me since I live in Lincoln, Nebraska and certain areas are pretty tough around here. I look forward to continue training in your methods. Thank You for hearing me.
With most sincerity,
Eileen Smith
Lincoln, Nebraska

"Something EVERY Martial Artist Should Know"
I've been watching all night and am on the 3rd cd. I think it's great! It's something every martial artist would feel stupid for not knowing and what others would think is genius.
I've kind of got to think hard on this, I'm definitely going to keep training. I can't wait to get to the weapons modules.
Thanks for sending the test drive!
Micayla Presley
Deer Park, Montana

"Black Belt Instructor Adds The Self Defense Training System To His Curriculum"
Damian,
I want to thank you for selflessly providing this information. The first module was in-depth and concise at the same time. I even enjoyed reading the literature.
We implemented the drills. The information has allowed for us to enhance our Applied Defence Systems (ADS) program. These valuable tools and combat principles have increased the realism and value of our self protection system.
Wisdom = Knowledge + Experience - Module One incorporates it ALL. Thank you for selflessly sharing these gems with the world.
Respectfully,
Reuben Bean
Bermuda

"The Self Defense Training System Is the Diamond Standard For All Martial Arts Training Systems"
Damian,
You have taken close quarters combat to it's zenith, the material contained in Module 1 is superlative, there is nothing else like it on the market, I thought that CORCT 1 & 2 was as good as it gets but I was wrong, this material breaks new ground, what you have created here is future-proof, this is the diamond standard that all else has to aspire to. I am very proud to be one of the first to own this material.
Thank you for producing The Self Defense Training System.
Warmest Regards,
John Walker
United Kingdom

Former Student Sends His Regards From Iraq
Sensei Ross,
I'm sorry this will be informal but there is good reason. A few years ago I was a student of yours for a matter of months. My name is Ryan Schumacher from Pompton Lakes. I just got back to my firm base after a foot patrol in Ramadi, Iraq. I'm about to rack out but I wanted to get in touch about your video system and some tips on a combat oriented training program in the weight room because I know you're all about the real deal which is awesome for someone like me.
I hope to here from you soon.
Lcpl Ryan J Schumacher, USMC

"Self Defense Company Professional Instructor Fills His First Class!"
Damian,
I thought you might want to here the latest...I'm getting about 60% of my website views from theselfdenseco.com website referrals (about 10 new hits a day now!).
I'm getting so many report downloads and phone calls that I am forced to start classes earlier than I had anticipated (People are CALLING ME! I haven't had to do a single follow up... the website and auto responder report works!).
Due to situations with my "day job", I was going to really get things kicked off at the end of Feb. However, I am now forced to start teaching next week with a full class. Here is the amazing part... This is 100% all from the website! As a result, I am also launching my marketing campaign this week (sooner than anticipated). Even more amazing (to me anyway) is that about half of the people calling me already have black belts in another martial art!! This speaks volumes as to the credibility and quality of the program.
Clint Bodungen, Instructor
The Self Defense Company Houston, TX

Just wanted to drop you a line of praise about the new videos. Abso-f$$kin'-loutly awesome!! They were even better than I had anticipated. I knew they would be good but not this good! Keep up the great work! Can't hardly wait for more.
Joe S.

Damian, Thanks, bro. The video is awesome!
Joel

I have to tell you new videos are great . I like them even better than the first 3. Keep me on the list for the up and coming ones.
Thanks
TJM

Hi Damian,
Thanks for sending my videos fast. Good material on a well organized event, good teaching in clear, informative and humorous style, and some new drills I can use in my training. The latter seems to be very beneficial for me. Particularly, the drills for the edge-of-the-hand blow were real eye-openers. Keep on your good work,
All the best,
Armin

Thanks for the feedback, Damian.
If you put out anything further please be sure to let me know. After viewing the video I was shocked to see the same approach (and I do mean the SAME approach) I was taught during the Vietnam War by a second-generation Japanese buddy who told me it was a Korean style of Tang Soo Do which had never been taught to any Caucasian before. (He told me he had a good friend of the family who was Korean and worked for the CIA who had introduced him to his teacher in Los Angeles). I never got to meet any of these people and for all I know it might have all been a tall tale from my friend. However the essentials were too right on: Turn to the side, back-fist on advance, rely on kicks to do the serious work. I have since worked with Tang Soo Do and this was very unlike that! I am very grateful for the work you have been doing.
Thank you!
George S.

Dear Damian
Thank you for sending the videos. I was amazed how quick they arrived. As to the videos themselves. Wow, they are gold dust, fantastic.
Thanks again
Andrew S

Hey D, Just wanted to drop you a line. Received the goods yesterday and did not wait a second to pop the tapes in. More than I could have ever hoped for. AWESOME!!!!!!! You did a GREAT job! Looking forward to many, many more great things. Just know that the Chicago Close Quarters Combat Association appreciates all of your efforts.
Joe

Hi Damian,
I hope my e-mail finds you well. I wanted to confirm receipt of the videos and say once again I am completely blown away by the incredible knowledge that you and your group are willing to share. I teach FMA's but have introduced Combatives to add brutal effective self-defence to my student's repetoires. Thank you and I look forward to the next video release.
Deepest Respects
Harry K - Birmingham, UK

Hi there.
Just want to thank you for the first module. It arrived in good order and I was most pleased with the content; it is astounding. It has brought to life all the things I've seen in the old books and added a great deal of useful information. I'm going to spend a lot of time working with this video.
Best regards,
James

Damian,
Thanks for your reply and for sending the ground fighting module. It is first rate, definately the best reality based techniques I have seen so far and as a result I feel I am missing some very good information.Congratulations on putting together this series and once again thanks for sending out.
Greg E.

Damian,
I have been involved in the martial arts for more than ten years. I hold rank in 4 separate systems. I look to your website for new and original ideas. Anyone looking to really improve their close combat skills would be foolish to ignore the service that you provide.
Shane

Just my two cents...I think the material is fantastic. I have studied BJJ for about 4 years and have a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. I have added your ideas into my own training. The real question is what will you do when you have to do something? I believe that time spent speculating and training on counter attacks is wasted. I think more time should be spent on an aggressive offensive mindset. I love your materials. Sometimes it is a year or two later that your revisit some material and all of a sudden it makes sense. I want to be able to revisit training materials for a long time to come. Thanks for asking for opinions.
James N, - Michigan

I must say that I think that these videos are entirely in a league of their own. I have spent A LOT of money on self-defense videos and NOTHING comes close to The Self Defense Company. Many folks carry guns these days for self-defense, but I am unable to as I work in a university and guns are prohibited on school grounds as are other weapons. So the info from The Self Defense Company is crucial for my survival in the event of a criminal/deranged person/terrorist attack upon me or other innocent persons. The legislature has not banned my hands, knees, elbows, feet, etc., at least not yet. However, just because one carries a gun does not mean that one should NOT have these tapes because they should own The Self Defense Company videos, otherwise they are very limited. I think that anyone who is serious about self-defense should purchase these videos. The info is simple to learn, and by using some thought about possible situations, one can train themselves using these videos and make an instructor unnecessary.
Will S.

Damian,
The information provided by your organization has the well-earned reputation for being top of the line. There are many providers of reality-based self defense out there but these by ANY measure must be ranked among the top 3. I have yet to see ANYONE negatively criticize this material and that is saying something in the sometimes cutthroat business of marketing self defense products. Even competitors speak highly of this work and that too is saying something. Though this material is supposed to be utilized as an additional tool to someone's current classroom training, there is little doubt that it is of such high quality and proven effectiveness that is could easily be used as a stand alone method of self defense. If a practitioner of combatives included in their training a heavy dose of lifting and cardio, they would be heads and shoulders over most of the would-be perps and victimizers out there. As a side bar, Damian, have you considered providing Tekkenryu JJ video instruction and/or establishing affiliates/branch dojos, instructor certifications? The sky would be the limit as to what he, you and Zenshin could do.
Best Regards,
Dave Andrus

Hi Damian
Just a quick thank you. I've now ordered two sets of material from you - on each occasion they were dispatched promptly, arrived quickly and worked perfectly. As for the material itself, this, for me at least, a revelation. The information is presented in the manner in which the techniques should be performed - simply, effectively, brutally. Nothing is said and nothing is shown that can't be utilized by the viewer with immediate and (I suspect) devastating effect. I personally found the advice on mindsetting alone to be worth the price of the purchase. I can't imagine anyone - regardless of skill level or style (if any) - not getting something of value out of this. Thanks again. Very best regards
John S.

In response to your email
The information that you have collated /presented in the video's and in the articles is direct and to the point. You doesn't glorify the act of self defense in fact it makes one realize that the old adage of ''prevention is better than cure'', eg awareness etc. is the primary principle to grasp. A lot of sites, publication etc always appear to have a secret technique that has remained so for years & years but credit to you haven't made things complicated but always simple and effective which is obviously the case in live situations. In addition to the above you have also avoided the ''if he does this'' then ''you must do that'' etc, thus avoiding the clone syndrome . Principles of self defense are far more important than the abc as no two situations or people are the same. I would like to thank you for being honest about what works and what doesn't and for providing simple and effective techniques/principles again proven to work for real and not just in the gym. the web site is very clear and easy to navigate, information on combative fitness would be good or advice for solo practice ,(I know that solo practice is not ideal but unfortunantly I don't have the luxury of having a training partner, or any suitable clubs near by). Thanks for keeping it real yours faithfully
Steven S.