Get Started with a free trial class

Tacoma Aikikai
Get Started

Member Login

September 2026 Program Application
2026/2027 Program Dates

Tacoma Aikikai Aikido Youth Leadership Program

Purpose & Goals

We believe that youth leaders inspire youth leaders. We believe that aikido training offers valuable tools on a young person’s journey of discovery. We believe that youth students of today will be aikido leaders of tomorrow.
The Aikido Youth Leadership Program (YLP) exists to develop the leadership potential and deepen the practice of youth students through aikido mentorship, service, and community building. Youth led, the YLP is an open vessel for anything program participants want to achieve. Program members are held to a high level of personal responsibility to participate in, contribute to, and guide the direction of the program itself.As a YLP participant, students have the opportunity to deepen their own practice by helping others in youth classes; participate in monthly discussions and quarterly workshops; attend open dojo hours to self-organize, socialize, and build community; join field trips to expand training, cross-cultural, or leadership experience; and make an impact to outside the dojo by organizing and executing an annual community service project.

Components

      • Structured mentorship and teaching opportunities Students earn formal ranks of mentor, leader, and junior instructor with program hours and experience. (see rank matrix)
      • Monthly Leadership Meetings Monthly discussions with Ea Sensei to cultivate leadership and mentorship skills (Fridays 5:30-6:30 pm – see 2026/27 meeting schedule)
      • Quarterly Leadership Workshops & Field Trips Youth-led workshops or field trips to explore topics in leadership and culture (TBD, based on YLP interest and availability)
      • Open Dojo Hours Students can self-organize and socialize during open dojo hours (most Fridays after teen class, 5:30-6:30 pm)
      • Chaperoned participation in regional Aikido events Students are eligible to participate in regional training events with Ea and Eric Sensei.

Program Requirements

Duration

September – June (+optional summer activities)

Cost

There is no fee for program participation. Optional overnight events, field trips, and regional training events may have participation fees.

Commitments & Expectations

  • Attend New Mentor Orientation Workshop
  • Attend Monthly Leadership Meetings, (Specified Fridays, 5:30-6:30 pm)
  • Mentor in youth classes (see YLP rank matrix).
  • Participate in our annual Community Service Project.
  • Demonstrate leadership qualities on and off the mat.

Completion and Promotion

  • Participants who successfully meet the above expectations receive a certificate of completion for the year and are eligible to continue in the program.
  • Participants who graduate from the youth aikido program may continue as YLP members in an advisory status until the age of 21.
  • YLP members in good standing may apply for rank promotion at any time, once teaching requirements are met.

 

Program Application

Who should apply?

    • Tacoma Aikikai Students ranked as Red Belt, or higher, and at least 11 years of age.
    • Students with the desire to deepen their Aikido practice by helping others.
    • Students who are interested in building a supportive youth dojo community.
    • Students who are committed to exhibiting aikido leadership qualities of compassion, dedication, integrity, and mutual respect both in the dojo and in the community.