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How to Implement the Kid Warrior Bootcamp at Your Martial Arts School: A Game-Changer for Building Resilience and Discipline
Nick Dougherty • August 29, 2024
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Hey, school owners! Nick D here, and if you’re looking to take your martial arts school to the next level, then I’ve got something you need to pay attention to—the Kid Warrior Bootcamp. This isn’t just a program; it’s a movement. It’s about changing the way we think about youth development and positioning your school as the go-to place for building strong, resilient, and disciplined kids.


The Vision: Why Kid Warrior Bootcamp?

First, let’s talk about why you should be implementing the Kid Warrior Bootcamp in your school. We all know that today’s kids face more distractions and challenges than ever before—screens, social media, and an overall lack of physical activity. As martial arts school owners, we have a unique opportunity to fill a crucial gap in their development. The Kid Warrior Bootcamp is designed to do just that by focusing on three core areas: physical fitness, mental resilience, and community engagement.


This bootcamp isn’t just about getting kids to move; it’s about transforming them into warriors—strong in body, mind, and spirit. And as school owners, it’s our responsibility to equip them with the tools they need to succeed not just in the dojo, but in life.


The Tactical Breakdown: Strategy and Implementation

Now, let’s get tactical. One of the most critical lessons I’ve learned in building successful programs is the importance of strategy and implementation. As we gear up to launch the Kid Warrior Bootcamp, you need to be laser-focused on these two elements.


Strategy:

  • First, define the goals of the Kid Warrior Bootcamp in your school. Are you aiming to boost enrollment? Improve retention? Increase community engagement? Whatever your goals, make sure they’re clear and measurable.


  • Next, consider how you’ll market the bootcamp. Are your emails ready? Is your social media strategy in place? Use the tools we’ve provided, like the customized email templates and social media graphics, to ensure your message cuts through the noise.


Implementation:

  • Execution is everything. You can have the best strategy in the world, but if you don’t implement it effectively, it’s worthless. Make sure you’re ready to roll out the Kid Warrior Bootcamp with precision. This includes having your classes scheduled, instructors prepped, and materials ready to go.


One of the key tactics I recommend is pre-booking appointments and ensuring you’re not slowing down when others are. When most schools are checking out during holidays or long weekends, you should be doubling down. For example, during Labor Day, instead of taking it easy, push your Kid Warrior Bootcamp hard because there will be less noise and more attention on your offer.


Creating a Powerful Community: The Core of Kid Warrior Bootcamp

The success of the Kid Warrior Bootcamp hinges on creating a strong sense of community among your students and their families. This program isn’t just about the kids; it’s about involving the entire family in the process. Encourage parents to be active participants, whether that’s through attending events, supporting their child’s progress, or even engaging in family activities that promote the values we teach in the bootcamp.


Accountability is key. Implement an accountability system that not only tracks the progress of your students but also involves their parents. This could be something as simple as a weekly check-in where families report on their physical activities, screen time reductions, or mindfulness practices. Make this system a part of the Kid Warrior Bootcamp and watch how it transforms not just your students, but their entire household.


When you create a culture of accountability, you’re not just improving the lives of your students; you’re strengthening the fabric of your entire community. Imagine the impact when families, who are usually overwhelmed by the chaos of daily life, start to prioritize discipline, fitness, and mental resilience. Your school becomes the epicenter of this positive change.


Breaking Free from Distractions: A Focus on Mindfulness and Discipline

One of the most significant challenges we face today is the overwhelming presence of digital distractions. The Kid Warrior Bootcamp tackles this head-on by incorporating lessons on mindfulness and focus. Teach your students the importance of being present, of tuning out the noise, and concentrating on the task at hand.


During the bootcamp, include sessions that specifically address these issues. For example, you can have a “Screen-Free Challenge” where kids commit to reducing their screen time and replacing it with physical or mindful activities. This isn’t just a one-time event but a habit we want them to carry forward into their daily lives.


Think about the impact of a child learning to focus on a single task without the constant pull of notifications or the allure of endless scrolling. This focus and discipline will not only improve their performance in martial arts but will also enhance their academic performance and personal relationships. By teaching mindfulness, you’re giving them a lifelong tool to manage stress and maintain mental clarity.


The Kid Warrior Accountability System: A Proven Method to Drive Results

One of the standout features of the Kid Warrior Bootcamp is the Kid Warrior Accountability System. This system is designed to keep students engaged and committed long after the bootcamp ends. It’s not just about holding them accountable for attending classes but about setting personal goals for physical fitness, mental resilience, and community involvement.


Here’s how you can implement it in your school:

  • Personalized Plans: Each student gets a customized plan that includes goals tailored to their abilities and needs. This could range from achieving a certain level of physical fitness to improving their focus in school.


  • Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular check-ins with your students and their parents to review progress. This keeps them motivated and on track.


  • Community Support: Encourage students to support each other in achieving their goals. This builds a sense of camaraderie and collective growth.


Make sure that the accountability system is an upgrade option for families. Don’t give it away as part of the regular program. By making it a premium offering, you not only add value but also ensure that those who sign up are truly committed. This also creates a new revenue stream for your school.


Charging for the accountability system adds a layer of commitment from the parents as well. When they invest in their child’s progress, they’re more likely to stay engaged and support their child in sticking to the program. This also makes it easier for you to maintain high standards in your school, as the families who opt into the accountability system are those who are serious about their child’s development.


Content is King: Leveraging High-Quality Content to Drive Engagement

If you’ve been following my strategies, you know I’m a big advocate of high-quality content. The Kid Warrior Bootcamp is no different. From professionally designed social media posts to engaging email campaigns, content is what will set your bootcamp apart from other programs.


Here’s what you should be focusing on:


  • Professional Reels and Videos: Use high-quality videos to showcase your Kid Warrior Bootcamp. This isn’t just about showing kids in action; it’s about telling a story that resonates with parents. Show them how this bootcamp is different—how it builds not just strength, but character.


  • Engaging Email Campaigns: Don’t just send out generic emails. Use targeted messaging that speaks directly to the pain points of parents—like the need for discipline, focus, and physical activity. The templates we provide can be a great starting point, but don’t be afraid to tweak them to fit your unique voice.


  • Social Media Strategy: Make sure your social media presence is strong. Post regularly, engage with your audience, and use the content we’ve provided to create a consistent and compelling message.


The content you produce should reflect the values of the Kid Warrior Bootcamp—strength, resilience, discipline, and community. When parents see this content, they should immediately understand that your school is more than just a place to learn martial arts; it’s a place where their child can grow into a well-rounded individual.


If you’re struggling to create this content or want to take it to the next level, join the Brotherhood. We’ve got the tools, templates, and tactics that will make implementing the Kid Warrior Bootcamp in your school a breeze. Plus, you’ll be joining a community of like-minded school owners who are all committed to making a difference.


Creating a Seamless Experience: How to Roll Out the Kid Warrior Bootcamp

Now that you’ve got the strategy and content ready, it’s time to focus on creating a seamless experience for your students and their families.


Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to roll out the Kid Warrior Bootcamp in your school:


1. Pre-Launch Marketing:

  • Start promoting the Kid Warrior Bootcamp at least four weeks before the launch date. Use the content provided to create buzz on social media, through email campaigns, and in your school.


  • Host a free webinar or in-person event to introduce the bootcamp to parents. This is a great way to address any questions they might have and to showcase the benefits of the program.


2. Enrollment Process:

  • Make the enrollment process simple and straightforward. Use online registration forms and offer an early-bird discount to encourage sign-ups.


  • Consider offering a referral program where current students can earn rewards for bringing in new participants. This not only boosts enrollment but also strengthens the community aspect of the bootcamp.


3. Orientation Session:

  • Hold an orientation session for all participants before the bootcamp begins. This is where you’ll go over the expectations, the accountability system, and the schedule.


  • Use this time to build excitement among the kids and their parents. Make sure everyone understands that this isn’t just a regular class—it’s a transformative experience.


4. Bootcamp Kickoff:

  • Launch the bootcamp with a high-energy event. Whether it’s a special guest speaker, a fun team-building activity, or a martial arts demonstration, make sure the kickoff sets the tone for the rest of the program.


  • Capture the event on video and use the footage to create promotional content for future bootcamps.


5. Ongoing Engagement:

  • Throughout the bootcamp, keep parents and students engaged with regular updates. Share progress reports, motivational content, and tips for staying on track.


  • Use the accountability system to monitor each student’s progress and to intervene early if someone is struggling.


6. Graduation Event:

  • End the bootcamp with a graduation event where students receive certificates of completion. This is not just a celebration but also a way to reinforce the lessons they’ve learned.


  • Invite parents, family members, and friends to attend. Use this event as an opportunity to promote future programs and to encourage continued enrollment in your regular classes.


7. Post-Bootcamp Follow-Up:

  • Don’t let the momentum die after the bootcamp ends. Follow up with participants to encourage them to continue their martial arts journey. Offer special discounts for those who sign up for additional classes or programs.


  • Collect testimonials from parents and students. Use these testimonials in your marketing materials to attract new families to future bootcamps.


FAQ: Your Questions Answered

To help you get started, I’ve put together an FAQ section with some of the most common questions school owners have about implementing the Kid Warrior Bootcamp.


Q: How long should the Kid Warrior Bootcamp last?

The duration of the bootcamp can vary depending on your school’s schedule, but I recommend running it for six to eight weeks. This gives students enough time to see real progress while also maintaining their interest and engagement.


Q: What age group is the Kid Warrior Bootcamp designed for?

The Kid Warrior Bootcamp is designed for children aged 5-12. This is a crucial age range for developing the skills and habits that will set them up for success in life. However, you can tailor the program to fit different age groups if needed.


Q: How can I ensure that parents stay engaged throughout the bootcamp?

Regular communication is key. Use weekly emails, text messages, and social media updates to keep parents informed and engaged. Also, involve them in the accountability system by asking them to track their child’s progress at home.


Q: Can I customize the Kid Warrior Bootcamp for my school?

Absolutely! The Kid Warrior Bootcamp is designed to be flexible. You can adapt the content, schedule, and activities to fit the unique needs of your school and community. The most important thing is to stay true to the core values of the program—strength, resilience, discipline, and community.


Q: What kind of content is included in the Kid Warrior Bootcamp package?

The package includes a wide range of content, including social media graphics, email templates, promotional videos, and accountability tracking materials. If you’re part of the Brotherhood, you’ll also have access to additional resources and support to help you implement the program effectively.


Q: How do I handle students who struggle to keep up with the bootcamp?

Use the accountability system to identify students who are struggling early on. Schedule one-on-one check-ins with them and their parents to address any challenges they’re facing. Offer additional support and encouragement, and consider modifying their goals to make them more achievable.


Q: What if I don’t have experience running a bootcamp-style program?

Don’t worry! The Kid Warrior Bootcamp package includes everything you need to get started, from step-by-step instructions to ready-to-use content. Plus, if you’re part of the Brotherhood, you’ll have access to a community of school owners who can offer advice and support.


Q: How can I measure the success of the Kid Warrior Bootcamp?

Success can be measured in several ways, including increased enrollment, improved retention, and positive feedback from parents and students. You can also track the progress of individual students through the accountability system and use this data to make any necessary adjustments to the program.

Final Thoughts: Implementing the Kid Warrior Bootcamp

The Kid Warrior Bootcamp is more than just a program—it’s a way to position your martial arts school as a leader in youth development. By focusing on strategy, implementation, and high-quality content, you can create a transformative experience for your students that will keep them coming back and bring new families through your doors.


But don’t do it alone. If you want the best resources, the latest tactics, and the support of a community that’s committed to excellence, then you need to join the Brotherhood. We’re here to help you succeed, and together, we can make a real difference in the lives of our students.


Let’s get to work, school owners. The future Kid Warriors are counting on us.


Need to access this content? Join The Brotherhood, and download the files in our Facebook Group.

By Nick Dougherty February 12, 2025
Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance—it’s about connection, confidence, and commitment. Use this holiday as an opportunity to bring new students in with these low-cost, high-impact ideas that align with your martial arts studio’s mission. 1. “Heart of a Warrior” Parent & Child Free Class 💡 Concept: Promote bonding and discipline by inviting parents to train with their kids for free on Valentine’s Day. 🎯 Why It Works: Many parents want meaningful quality time with their kids. This class builds connection while showcasing your program. ✅ How to Execute: • Offer a one-day “Heart of a Warrior” family training session where parents and kids train together. • Make it interactive with fun drills, teamwork exercises, and life lessons on love through leadership and protection. • Give attending families a special offer if they enroll together. 2. “Bring Your Bestie” Buddy Pass 💡 Concept: Offer existing students a free pass for their friend to train with them for one week. 🎯 Why It Works: Friends training together increases commitment and fun, leading to a higher retention rate. ✅ How to Execute: • Give out limited-time “Bestie Buddy Passes” leading up to Valentine’s Day. • Create a friendly competition where the pair with the most classes attended wins a small prize (sticker, wristband, etc.). • End the week with a Bestie Belt Challenge—a fun drill where they help each other succeed. 3. “Protect Your Loved Ones” Self-Defense Seminar 💡 Concept: Host a free community self-defense workshop themed around protecting the people you love. 🎯 Why It Works: This empowers parents, kids, and couples, showing that martial arts isn’t just about fighting—it’s about keeping loved ones safe. ✅ How to Execute: • Keep it basic and engaging (situational awareness, escape drills, etc.). • Promote with “Who Would You Protect?” messaging—have people tag loved ones to attend together. • Offer attendees a discounted membership if they enroll as a duo (parent/child, siblings, friends). 4. “Love Yourself, Train for Free” Challenge 💡 Concept: Focus on self-love and self-improvement with a 7-day free challenge for new students. 🎯 Why It Works: February is prime time for goal-setting and personal development, especially after failed New Year’s resolutions. ✅ How to Execute: • Challenge runs for one week, including one free class and a simple at-home challenge (push-ups, mindfulness, journaling). • Use a special challenge tracker—those who complete all tasks get a free trial extension or discounted enrollment. • Promote the idea that “the best Valentine is YOU”—train for self-confidence and discipline. 5. “Power Couples” Valentine’s Day Sparring Event 💡 Concept: Create a fun couples event where partners train together in a lighthearted martial arts class. 🎯 Why It Works: Couples who train together stay together! This is a fun, unique date idea that gets them hooked on training. ✅ How to Execute: • Offer a free couple’s class with basic partner drills, pad work, and a mini-competition. • Keep it light and fun, adding partner teamwork exercises like helping each other perfect a kick. • Offer a discounted rate for couples who sign up together (or let one enroll and their partner train for free for a month). 6. “Warrior’s Heart” Valentine’s Day Card Giveaway 💡 Concept: Create custom martial arts-themed Valentine’s cards for students to hand out to their friends. 🎯 Why It Works: It’s an organic referral strategy—students naturally invite friends while sharing something fun. ✅ How to Execute: • Print simple custom cards that say “Train with me for FREE!” and include a guest pass. • Have kids hand them out at school, to teammates, or at other activities. • Offer a raffle entry for every friend that redeems a pass. 7. “Love the Journey” Social Media Giveaway 💡 Concept: Run a social media giveaway where people share what they love about martial arts for a chance to win a free month of training. 🎯 Why It Works: Encourages engagement and word-of-mouth marketing while getting new prospects interested. ✅ How to Execute: • Post: “Tell us what you LOVE about martial arts in the comments for a chance to win a free month!” • Require them to tag 2 friends (expands your reach). • Pick one winner at random, but offer all participants a limited-time discount to join. Final Thought: The Key is Engagement, Not Cost GRAB YOUR GRAPHICS HERE
By Nick Dougherty February 11, 2025
Why the First 100 Days Matter The first 100 days of a new student’s journey will determine whether they become a lifelong member or just another drop-off. The goal is to blow their minds at every step—showing them they made the right decision, reinforcing their commitment, and ensuring they experience everything they were promised as a lead. This isn’t just onboarding. This is a full-blown experience designed to create unstoppable loyalty. PHASE 1: THE IMMEDIATE IMPACT (Days 1-7) Objective: Make them feel like they joined something special. ✅ Day 1: The Red Carpet Welcome Personalized welcome video from the head instructor. Studio tour if not already given. Exclusive "Welcome to the Family" package (shirt, wristband, or special badge). Immediate invite to the Private Member Community (Facebook group, WhatsApp, etc.). First class follow-up: "How was your first session? Anything we can help with?" ✅ Day 2-3: The Commitment Reminder Send an email/SMS reminding them WHY they joined and the transformation ahead. Video of success stories from students just like them. Assign an accountability partner (a senior student or coach check-in system). ✅ Day 4-7: Reinforce Their Decision "Your first week down! Here’s what’s next!" email with milestones ahead. Share a "What to Expect in Month 1" roadmap. Offer a personalized challenge (ex: "Earn your first stripe by Day 30"). Midweek check-in from an instructor: "How are you feeling so far?" PHASE 2: CREATING MASSIVE VALUE (Days 8-30) Objective: Show them they’re getting MORE than they expected. ✅ Day 8-10: The First WIN Challenge Encourage them to share their experience in the private group. Offer their first milestone challenge (ex: "Show up 3 times this week = reward!"). ✅ Day 14: Shock & Awe Gift Surprise them with a free training resource, exclusive content, or VIP access to a special class. "We appreciate you! Here’s something extra for your commitment." ✅ Day 21: Unlock the Next Level First milestone review (personal feedback on progress). Reminder of why they started. Personal invite to something exclusive (a seminar, VIP event, or extra class). ✅ Day 30: "Your First 30 Days – Look at You Now!" A personal message celebrating their 30-day achievement. Highlight growth, progress, and improvements. "What’s Next?" preview of their next 30 days. A customized training plan for their next month. PHASE 3: BUILDING STRONG CONNECTIONS (Days 31-60) Objective: Deepen their ties to the community and future vision. ✅ Day 35-40: Invite-Only Challenge Special event or seminar for new students only. A buddy pass to bring a friend/family member. "Training isn’t just about the body—it’s about the tribe!" ✅ Day 45: Personal Progress Call 1-on-1 progress check-in. Adjust training goals based on feedback. "Here’s where you’re crushing it! Here’s where we’ll level up!" ✅ Day 50-55: Leadership Exposure Introduce them to a senior member or coach for a mentorship-style talk. "You’re past the beginner phase—time to start thinking bigger!" ✅ Day 60: The Family Bonding Experience Host a "Bring Your Family to Class" session. Strengthen outside support from their personal circles. Cement their feeling that they’re part of something bigger. PHASE 4: CEMENTING THEIR FUTURE (Days 61-100) Objective: Transform them from a student into a lifelong warrior. ✅ Day 65-70: "Why I Train" Reflection Have them write or record a video on what martial arts has done for them so far. Post in the community group to inspire others. ✅ Day 75: Special Advancement Opportunity A unique training opportunity (early testing invite, exclusive sparring session, etc.). "Not everyone gets this. You’ve EARNED it." ✅ Day 85-90: The Next-Level Commitment Offer an upgraded membership, private coaching, or leadership path. "You’re no longer just starting out. It’s time to level up!" ✅ Day 100: "You Made It – What’s Next?" Celebrate their journey and cement long-term retention. Special gift, recognition, or badge of honor for completing 100 days. Personal invite to become a mentor for new students . "You’re no longer a new student. You’re a part of this for LIFE." Why This Works 🔥 Most gyms & studios focus only on getting members, NOT keeping them. This system ensures they feel valued, engaged, and constantly progressing. 🔥 People don’t quit when they’re deeply connected to the community. These first 100 days create that connection. 🔥 By constantly reinforcing the value, members won’t second-guess their decision. Instead, they’ll be telling their friends and family to join! This isn’t just an onboarding process—it’s customer shock & awe. The result? More loyalty, fewer cancellations, and a thriving studio.  YOUR NEXT MOVE: Implement this 100-day shock system in your studio and start turning new leads into lifelong warriors. 👊🔥
By Nick Dougherty February 11, 2025
Why Most People Fail at Reels Creating Reels isn’t hard. Staying organized, consistent, and strategic is where most fail. This framework will help you build an effective Reels system that keeps your content sharp, engaging, and results-driven. 1. The Doc of Truth – Your Reels Blueprint Before making content, define your core message so every Reel aligns with your brand. Answer these questions: What is the purpose of your videos? What do you stand for? What do you stand against? Where are you taking people? What makes you unique? Who can back up what you say? What are people getting from you? Would anyone share your video? When they go to your IG page, can you turn a glance into a stare? Is there an easy way for new followers to get started? 2. Who Is Making the Reels? This is your TV show. Think about: Who is behind the production? It’s not about volume—it’s about context and clarity. Thumbnails should stand out and look unique. 3. Make 7-10 Reels at a Time Batch content creation to stay ahead. Then distribute across platforms. 4. One-Take vs. Multiple Takes One-take videos = Fast, raw, real. Multiple takes = More polished, but more time-consuming and expensive. 5. You Can’t Afford to Make Them Yourself It takes too long to shoot, edit, and post everything solo. Hire a content team or use a streamlined system. 6. Look Like a Pro High-quality visuals and sound matter. Keep branding consistent across Reels. 7. Every Video Should Follow a Framework Use proven formulas to make Reels engaging and effective. 7 Reasons Your Business Needs Reels More Reach: Instagram favors Reels, pushing them to new audiences. Higher Engagement: Short-form video captures attention faster. Better Brand Trust: Video builds deeper connections than images. Lead Generation: Reels turn viewers into followers, then customers. Algorithm Boost: IG rewards accounts that consistently post Reels. Shareable Content: Easy for followers to spread your message. SEO & Discoverability: Reels show up in search results, getting you found faster. 5 Other Ways to Use Reels & Where to Distribute Post to Facebook Reels – Expands reach to another massive audience. Upload as YouTube Shorts – Capitalize on YouTube’s push for short-form content. TikTok Reposts – Repurpose Reels onto TikTok for more engagement. Website Integration – Add Reels to your website to boost credibility. Email Marketing – Embed Reels in emails to keep subscribers engaged.  🔥 10 Instagram Reels Frameworks (Used by Top Creators) These frameworks are designed to grab attention, drive engagement, and increase reach . Hook → Teach → CTA (Call to Action) Start with an attention-grabbing question or statement. Teach a valuable tip in a concise way. End with a CTA (e.g., “Follow for more!” or “Comment below!”). Before & After Transformation Show a "before" state (struggling with a technique, fitness level, or skill). Transition to the "after" (mastering the technique, improvement, or success story). Challenge-Based Reels Introduce a martial arts challenge (e.g., “Try this kick combo!”). Show how to do it. Invite viewers to try and tag your studio. Behind-the-Scenes (BTS) Content Give a sneak peek into classes, instructor prep, or student training. Keep it raw and engaging (students sweating, sparring, celebrating wins). Reaction or Duet-Style Reels React to trending martial arts clips, fails, or highlights. Add your expert commentary or humor. Fast-Paced Montage with Music A mix of training shots, sparring, and students in action. Use high-energy music and quick transitions. “Mistakes to Avoid” Format Show a common mistake in martial arts. Explain why it's wrong. Demonstrate the correct way. “POV” (Point of View) Style Example: “POV: You just signed up for your first martial arts class.” Show the experience from a new student’s eyes. Storytelling (Personal Journey or Student Testimonial) Share a powerful transformation story (yours or a student’s). Use captions or voiceover to tell the story. “Listicle” (X Tips in X Seconds) Example: “3 Mistakes That Are Holding Back Your Kicks” Quick, informative, and engaging. 🥋 10 Instagram Reels Topics for Martial Arts Studio Owners These topics are designed to attract new students, engage the community, and build authority . “Why Every Kid Should Learn Martial Arts” Benefits like discipline, confidence, and self-defense. “3 Self-Defense Moves Everyone Should Know” Demonstrate easy-to-learn techniques. “How to Throw a Perfect Kick (Common Mistakes)” Teach proper form in an engaging way. “What to Expect in Your First Martial Arts Class” Ease the nerves of potential students. “My Biggest Martial Arts Fail (And What I Learned)” Share a personal or funny moment to build relatability. “Best Warm-Up for Fighters & Martial Artists” A quick and effective warm-up routine. “Student of the Month Highlight” Celebrate a student’s progress and dedication. “The #1 Myth About Martial Arts (Debunked)” Address common misconceptions like “Martial arts is just for fighters.” “How Martial Arts Can Help You in Real Life” Talk about confidence, focus, and discipline. “Funniest Things We Hear as Martial Arts Instructors” Share hilarious questions or comments from students. Final Thought Reels are non-negotiable for business growth. Stay consistent, follow the framework, and use Reels strategically to attract, engage, and convert your audience across multiple platforms. Get filming and start winning! 🎥🔥
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