Aikido @ Open Sky Aikikai - AikiSky.com

Chief Instructor: Steven Kaufmann

Kaufmann Sensei (6th degree blackbelt, Shildoin) has studied the martial art of Aikido extensively with three of Aikido's great teachers: Y. Yamada, Shihan (master teacher), chief instructor of New York Aikikai; M. Kanai, Shihan, chief instructor of New England Aikikai; and T.K. Chiba, Shihan, chief instructor of San Diego Aikikai and head of the USAF, Western Region. These three Aikido masters were uchideshi students of O'Sensei. That is, as young men they lived in the dojo and trained daily with the founder of Aikido. Open Sky Aikikai takes pride in practicing traditional Aikido.

Steve Sensei's daily practice includes Aikido, Zen meditation, and Tai Chi. His model of excellence is Morihei Ueshiba, O'Sensei, the founder of Aikido. Steve's interest is in developing great internal awareness and empowerment in himself and his students.

Steve's teaching methods clearly communicate to students how to refine themselves through integrating their body, mind, and spirit in Aikido practice. Increased awareness of internal energy improves sensitivity, power, and health.

Steve taught grades K-8 as a licenced school teacher for over 10 years in Orange and Chatham Counties, NC and Oakland, CA. He has certification in Learning Disabilities. He was a specialist for Duke University for two years as a Violence Prevention Trainer for 6th grade students and their teachers in Durham, NC. He now teaches aikido and tai chi at Duke University. He is really enjoying working with school children at Central Park School for Children. Steve's favorite pastime is gardening.

Jesse Susan Kaufmann

Jesse's teaching experience includes nine years as instructor of children's aikido, ten years as an instructor in children's after-school programs, and six years as humane educator for children at the Animal Protection Society in Chapel Hill. She also taught painting at the Arts Center in Carrboro. She is a 2nd degree black belt and the school administrator.

Katie Haywood

Katie Haywood has been with Open Sky since our first year and has been teaching the Sunday afternoon mixed-level class since 2000. She also offers private lessons. Beginners and students preparing for kyu tests are encouraged to attend her class. Katie has a 3rd degree black belt in Aikido. Outside the dojo, she works as a free-lance publishing professional.

katiehaywoodpublishing

Andy Wood

Andy Wood

Andy Wood teaches adult and children's Aikido and weapons. He has a 2nd degree black belt and fukushidoin rank in Aikido. Andy administers the non-profit scholarship program for children at Open Sky.He owns Wood Construction Co. He has two children who study Aikido at Open Sky.