I have, during my time with the Copenhagen Aikido Club, helped to host seven international week-long summer camps in Denmark with Saito Sensei as well as three weekend camps. The summer camps, because there were five full days of practice, were a special opportunity to learn from Sensei – not only during the classes but also during our free time. I had the opportunity to spend time with him from the morning to late evening. He would often share special points about techniques and tell about training in the olden days in Iwama and many other important and fascinating subjects.
This has provided me with a clear understanding of his teachings as well as allowing me an even deeper insight into the life of this fascinating man.
I met my wife on my first visit to Japan. She comes from the same prefecture that Iwama is situated in, Ibaraki. She has helped me to understand even more of what Sensei had to say, both directly and between the lines, in technical matters as well as many others.
Sensei would sometimes be a little strict with me because he knew I had a Japanese family, and he expected me to understand more of the culture because of my family ties. Sensei knew that I was born in America and had grown up in Denmark.
He once said to me “Ethan, your are half American and half Danish, but your center is Japanese!” With my life long love of Japan and its beautiful culture, I consider this to be a great compliment. I incorporate the many things I have learned about Japanese etiquette and culture in my classes.
I believe this is an important part of learning a Japanese martial art.
I have taught Aikido in Denmark, Sweden, Germany, Italy, Canada, America , Russia and even in the homeland of Aikido: Japan. I have had the special privilege of teaching in Saito Sensei’s own dojo on his recommendation, at the Iwama Budokan and at the Mito Kokusai Aikido Dojo, the international Aikido club run by Miles Kessler in the capital of Ibaraki prefecture.
I strive to convey the teachings I have been given by my teacher, Saito Sensei, and if I can pass them on with just a fraction of the spirit and dedication he showed in his teaching then I will be happy.
I look forward to practicing and enjoying the wonderful martial art called Aikido with as many people as possible.
Welcome!