More than martial arts. Team Raposa students don't just learn to fight — they learn to stand up, speak out, and lead. The DEFENDER program builds the character, confidence, and courage your child carries everywhere.
★ Active in 43 Schools · 1,500+ Students · Powered by CINA Nonprofit
DEFENDER is Team Raposa's integrated anti-bullying and character development program, powered by CINA — the Cultural Integration and Arts Association, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Every Team Raposa student, across all three locations, benefits from DEFENDER principles woven into every class, every belt promotion, and every interaction on the mat.
DEFENDER does not just teach your child how to handle a bully. It builds the kind of confident, empathetic, self-assured presence that prevents bullying before it starts — and creates young leaders who stand up for others.
The foundation of everything. Learning to control impulses, follow through on commitments, and hold yourself to a higher standard.
Understanding what others feel. DEFENDERS do not just stand up for themselves — they stand up for those who cannot.
The ability to block out distractions, set goals, and pursue them with determination. On the mat and in the classroom.
Striving to be better today than yesterday. Not perfection — progress. Every belt earned is proof of growth.
The courage to do the right thing even when it is hard. DEFENDERS speak up, step in, and lead by example.
The refusal to quit. When training gets hard, when school gets tough, when life challenges you — a DEFENDER keeps going.
The strength to last. Physical endurance on the mat builds mental endurance in life. DEFENDERS are built to go the distance.
For instructors, for parents, for peers, and for yourself. Respect is not demanded at Team Raposa — it is modeled and earned.
Eight values. Eight letters. One identity.
Every Team Raposa student is a DEFENDER.
DEFENDER is not a separate workshop or a one-time assembly. It is integrated into the daily training experience at Team Raposa. Here is how:
Every belt test includes a character assessment. Students must demonstrate DEFENDER values to advance, not just physical technique.
Each week focuses on one DEFENDER value. Instructors weave it into warm-ups, drills, and cool-downs through age-appropriate discussions and scenarios.
Upper belt students mentor lower belts, practicing empathy and leadership in real time.
Students learn practical de-escalation techniques alongside physical self-defense. The goal is always to resolve without fighting.
Monthly DEFENDER updates keep parents informed about what values are being reinforced so they can continue the conversation at home.
I am a DEFENDER.
I stand up for myself and for others.
I lead with respect and empathy.
I choose courage over silence.
I earn my belt through character and skill.
I will speak up, not stand by.
I am a DEFENDER.
Every Team Raposa student recites the DEFENDER pledge. It is not just words — it is a commitment to being the kind of person who makes their community better.
DEFENDER started in Newark's public schools through our CINA nonprofit and has grown into the backbone of every Team Raposa program. Whether your child trains in Newark, East Hanover, or Linden, they benefit from a character development system proven across thousands of students.
43
Newark Public Schools Reached
1,500+
Students Impacted Annually
3
Team Raposa Locations
20+
Years of Character Development
"My daughter used to come home from school in tears because of bullying. After three months in the DEFENDER program, she told me she stood up for a younger kid who was being picked on. I have never been more proud."
Maria S.
Newark, NJ
"Honestly we signed up for the physical fitness. What we got was a complete transformation in our son's character. He is more respectful at home, more focused at school, and his teachers have noticed the difference. DEFENDER is the real value of Team Raposa."
Jennifer L.
East Hanover, NJ
"Coach Paul and Master Diego do not just teach kicks and punches. They teach my kids how to be good people. The DEFENDER values are part of every single class. That is why we drive from Rahway to Linden three times a week."
Keisha T.
Rahway, NJ
DEFENDER is available for schools, community centers, and youth organizations through CINA, our 501(c)(3) nonprofit partner. If you are a school administrator, counselor, or community leader interested in bringing DEFENDER to your organization, we would love to hear from you.
Contact Us About DEFENDER for SchoolsFor nonprofit and grant information, visit imadefender.org (coming soon)
Give your child more than martial arts. Give them the character, confidence, and courage to lead. Every Team Raposa student is a DEFENDER.
Questions? Call (862) 305-0369
DEFENDER is powered by CINA Nonprofit. Follow CINA for more resources: