18/01/2023
Dear New York Aikikai Community,
We hope you’re doing okay during this difficult time following Yamada Sensei’s death. Thank you for your well wishes, both directly and on social media.
We have been fortunate to be the recipients of Yamada Sensei’s expertise and mastery for close to sixty years. The dojo and its membership grew and flourished under his guidance. The Board is well aware of how much you loved Sensei, as well as how he loved all of us. We also understand the importance of continuing his legacy.
Prior to Yamada Sensei’s passing, we had been working with him to fulfill the wishes he shared with us for the future of the dojo. His love of this community was central to his vision. To see this vision realized, we were also preparing for the kick off of a capital campaign. We have obviously now entered a different phase of planning.
That said, as per Yamada Sensei’s wishes, our immediate announcement is that Steve Pimsler Shihan assumes the role as the Chief Instructor of the New York Aikikai. In his role, he will continue Yamada Sensei’s legacy and lead the New York Aikikai into the future. The Board is confident that Pimsler Sensei will faithfully and humbly lead the school and our community rooted in the ideals upon which Yamada Sensei created this magical place.
We are committed to the continuity of Yamada Sensei’s teachings, to provide world class aikido instruction, and to keep our school alive and thriving in its present home on 18th Street. It is because of you, the students and teachers alike, who make this place special. Please continue to study sincerely and in the spirit Yamada Sensei expected of us.
The Board will be in touch with information in the coming days with regards to a Memorial for Yamada Sensei.
Warm regards,
The New York Aikikai Board of Directors
Sharon Dominguez, President
Kevin Kanesaka
David Katz
Junya Nakatsugawa
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