Adam began practicing martial arts at sixteen, starting with Jiu-jitsu before discovering Aikido. At nineteen, he began training with Hagihara Sensei and shortly thereafter became one of only two—and the last—uchi deshi to serve under him. Training intensively and never missing a day of practice, he became Hagihara Sensei's fastest promoted student. Hagihara Sensei appointed him dojocho, a role he continues to hold. As the Hombu delegate, he facilitates and oversees promotions. He holds a Masters degree in Education from Penn State University and a PhD in Learning Sciences from the University at Buffalo.
Saul began training at the Long Island Aikikai in 1975 at the Rockville Centre location and started teaching in 1978. One of the dojo's longest-running members, he trained under Hagihara Sensei for nearly fifty years, emphasizing large, dynamic ukemi. He has assisted in countless seminars and demonstrations over the decades. He serves on the panel that oversees promotion demonstrations and continues to teach at the Long Island Aikikai.
John began training at the Long Island Aikikai in 1980 at the Rockville Centre location. He followed Hagihara Sensei to dojos throughout Long Island and assisted with Aikido classes at C.W. Post College through the 1990s. After nearly twenty years of training, he joined Hagihara Sensei's teaching staff. He serves on the panel that oversees promotion demonstrations and continues to teach at the Long Island Aikikai.
Rich began training at the Long Island Aikikai in 2002 under Hagihara Sensei and the senior instructors. He led the dojo's children's program for many years. In Hagihara Sensei's later years, Rich served as his otomo and primary uke. He serves on the panel that oversees promotion demonstrations and continues to teach at the Long Island Aikikai.
Christopher began training in martial arts in 1980, studying karate, kung fu, and boxing. In 1986 he started jiu-jitsu and received his black belt in 1993. He began training in Aikido under Hagihara Sensei in 1998. He serves on the panel that oversees promotion demonstrations and teaches when visiting from New Jersey.
Tony began training in karate in 1972, eventually reaching 6th dan. He started practicing Yoshinkan Aikido in 1995, earning 2nd dan in that style. He now trains and teaches at the Long Island Aikikai.
Graeme began training in Aikido in 2001 under William Andrew of Aikido UK. Since 2017 he has also studied Musō Shinden-ryū and ZNKR Seitei iaido under Billy Smart at the Shonenjiku Glasgow dojo. He values efficiency and a minimalist approach to technique, with an emphasis on safety and longevity in training. Graeme is the lead instructor at Sanchin Aikido in Paisley, Scotland, which has been affiliated with the Long Island Aikikai since 2026.