Tacoma Aikikai

Aikido Youth Leadership Program

2026-2027 Cohort Year

Program Overview

Purpose and 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. Program participants are expected to take ownership of their role in the program by guiding the direction of the Youth Leadership Program itself. Youth-led and guided, the Youth Leadership Program is an open vessel for anything program participants want to achieve.

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 2026 – June 2027 (+optional summer field trips and meetings)

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 (Friday, October 23, 2026, 5-8 pm).
• 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.

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.

How to apply

• Talk to your parents about participation. Speak to Ea Sensei or other program members if you have questions or would like to learn more.
• New and returning members fill out an online or paper application by Wednesday, September 30^th for the 2026/27 program.
• Program acceptance will be announced by Tuesday, October 6^th.