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 Shihan and Cristian Tissier Shihan. 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 teaches his own class Sundays at 4:30pm. 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 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.

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 currently holds the rank of Shodan.

George began his martial arts journey in 1978 and has been has been practicing at Portsmouth Aikido since 2019. Prior to receiving Shodan in Aikido, he held rank in other arts including Nidan in Uechiryu Karate. As an Aikido instructor, George seeks to guide the development of unique inspiration that each student brings to the mat.