Rocky Valley Aikido

A traditional Japanese martial arts school following in the spirit of Hiroshi Kato Sensei Shihan (8th dan), a direct student of the founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba O' Sensei (Great Teacher). We have a comprehensive approach to teaching open-handed, sword, and staff techniques. We explore ways to reconcile conflict by encouraging balance and harmony. One of Kato Sensei's favorite sayings is "Masagatsu Agatsu" often translated as "True Victory, is Victory Over Oneself". So we practice together to get to know ourselves.

Head Instructor Dojo Cho

Brian Heery (6th dan) has been training sincerely in Aikido since 1995. He spent two years training intensely in Japan with his Aikido teacher, Hiroshi Kato Shihan (8th degree black belt) from 1998-2000, and organized Kato Sensei's bi-yearly visits for the following 12 years.
After Kato Sensei's passing in 2012, Brian has continued the tradition by arranging seminars to be taught at the dojo by one of Kato Sensei's most senior students at Suginami Aikikai in Japan.
Brian also serves as president of Suginami USA where his focus is carrying forward Kato Sensei's teachings.

Classes

Classes offered in person at Skypark, Scotts Valley, CA. and online via ZoomPlease contact Brian for more information: [email protected]