Hagihara Sensei has dedicated over 60 years of his life to the art of Aikido and is the longest running instructor in the US. He began his Aikido training in Manhattan New York in the late 1950’s under Yasuo Ohara. After founding the original New York Aikikai (circa 1961) as one of the seven founding members, Hagihara Sensei returned to Japan to train with the masters at the old Hombu Dojo. Hagihara Sensei’s stay at Hombu Dojo was encapsulated by the private teachings and spiritual guidance of O’Sensei, who personally commanded Hagihara Sensei to “go and teach my Aikido”. In 1964, Hagihara Sensei returned to United States to open New York's second Aikido Dojo on Long Island. Still active and teaching regularly, Hagihara Sensei stays true to O’Sensei’s message and teaches Aikido to promote peace and harmony.
Adam developed an interest in martial arts early on in his life. He began formally practicing martial arts at the age of 16 with the study of Jiu-jitsu, which quickly changed into an interest in Aikido. At the age of 19 he began training with Hagihara Shihan and shortly thereafter became one of only two uchi deshi (apprentice) ever to serve under Sensei. Training intensively and never missing a day of practice, Adam became Hagihara Sensei’s fastest promoted student. Adam believes that Aikido is a way towards mental and physical improvement. To him each movement should embody the brilliance of Aikido and he continues to train everyday in pursuit of this elusive goal. Adam also has a Masters degree in Education from Penn State University and is currently pursuing a PhD in Education from the University at Buffalo .