Cormier's Self Defense Academy Celebrates 25 Years

Name of Business:

Owner: Jim Cormier/Master Instructor

How many years have you been in business? How did you get started? We are celebrating our 25th year in Holliston. In the early 1980’s, my wife and I took a six week Adult Ed. self defense course at . I was hooked and trained a few nights a week for almost four years under Master Larry Garron. He then gave me permission to open a school and the rest is history.

Do you live in town? Since 1983. We’ve raised two daughters.  Aimee teaches 6th grade English and Social Studies at Adams Middle School.  Kelly is a registered nurse at Timothy Daniels House. Very proud of both of them.

What do you like best about owning/running this business? My greatest joy is helping kids and adults to develop a strong sense of self and to learn to overcome their fears.

Are you on Facebook/Twitter? We recently created our facebook page.  Our web site is www.Cormierselfdefense.com.

Any advice for someone new to the business? 1) Having an ability to effectively communicate with children of all kinds is a must. 2) Martial Arts are great for everyone. A good instructor will guide you to the right program for your needs and always be aware of your limitations.

What do your customers like best about your business? The obvious answer is “What they learn.” The real answer would be “Everyone here is a member of a great dojo family.”

Anything else you’d like us to know? After 25 years, I still love what I do. I have promoted hundreds of black belts over the years. Every one of my many black belt high school students has gone to college. Four are eagle scouts.

Editor's Note: For a look in to Cormier's musical career and to see him perform the awesome check out

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date on the latest Holliston news. If you'd like to receive the daily newsletter with our top stories, click here.