Zach began his aikido training in 1997, and later became an uchi deshi with James Friedman Sensei at Suginami Aikikai. While there, he had the honor of studying with a wide range of skilled instructors, including Hiroshi Kato and Cristian Tissier. Zach became a member of Portsmouth Aikido in 2013. He currently holds the rank of Yondan.

Ray began training with us in May of 2014 and earned his black belt in 2019. He is one of our most dedicated students and is the lead instructor, coordinating Wednesday black belt classes. In addition to his aikido training, he holds a 3rd degree black belt in Kung Fu, studied Yang-style Tai Chi, and worked as a strength trainer at Michigan University. Ray currently holds the rank of Sandan.

Peter started training at Connecticut Aikikai in New Haven in 2005 and joined Portsmouth Aikido in 2018. He is particularly interested in the opportunities for learning and self-improvement that aikido provides. When he's not at the dojo, he can be found doing math for fun, playing bass guitar in a variety of bands, and playing golf badly. He holds the rank of Nidan.

Jonathan began training at Portsmouth Aikido in 2015, and received Shodan in 2021. In addition to his aikido training, he holds the rank of Shodan in Wado-Ryu Karate. When he's not on the mat he enjoys playing guitar and riding his bike, and he is the owner of White Heron Tea and Chickadee Coffee & Tea. He holds the rank of Shodan.

Charles started his Aikido journey at Portsmouth Aikido in 2017. He chose Aikido for its compassionate approach to conflict resolution and focus on personal improvement. As a software engineer of over two decades, he enjoys Aikido for its unique ability to unify the body and mind. Off the mat, Charles enjoys playing tabletop games of all kinds with family and friends. He holds the rank of Shodan.

Adam began his Aikido training in 2001 at Shosenji Dojo in Toyonaka, Japan under Soto-Zen priest Katsuyuki Shimamoto 8th Dan, Shihan. Adam received Shodan there in 2004. He then went on to train in Osaka and at Tokyo Hombu Dojo before returning to the US in 2023, continuing his practice with us here at Portsmouth Aikido.