Greetings upon Assuming the Role of Chairman of the Board of Directors
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for your continued understanding and support of Shodokan Aikido.
I have recently been appointed as the Chairman of the NPO Shodokan Aikido Federation. Although my abilities are limited, I am fully committed to devoting my efforts to the growth and development of the federation.
As part of these efforts, my first step will be to review the federation’s activities and to strengthen the collaboration between its various departments, fostering a more cooperative organization. Additionally, I intend to establish a dedicated dojo in Tokyo with the aim of promoting Shodokan Aikido in the eastern region of Japan. Furthermore, while deepening our bonds with fellow practitioners around the world, I am eager to actively share the appeal of Shodokan Aikido, as passed down to us as a legacy of Tomiki Kenji sensei.
The contributions of my predecessor as Chairman of the Board, Yamagata Masaaki sensei, who successfully guided the federation through turbulent times, are truly remarkable. Although I feel the weight of this responsibility is a large undertaking, I am determined to press ahead with our vision, working in cooperation with Endo Sekio sensei and Sakai Shinnosuke sensei, who have both been appointed as Vice Chairmen.
I would like to humbly ask for your continued guidance and support, just as you have so generously extended to the previous Chairman.
In closing, I offer this brief message upon my appointment as Chairman of the Board.
October 10, 2024
Omori Ryuichi
Chairman of the Board of Directors – NPO Shodokan Aikido Federation
Message from the Retiring Chairman of the Board
As the long, hot summer finally comes to an end, and the crisp winds of a short autumn begin to blow, I hope this message finds everyone in good health.
It is on this occasion that I, Yamagata Masaaki, am stepping down from my position as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Shodokan Aikido Federation. During my time in office, I have been truly grateful for the support and cooperation I have received from everyone. Over the past 12 years since the federation’s founding in 2012, I have humbly dedicated myself to the organization’s growth. Tomiki shihan ‘illuminated the way’ for us at Shodokan, and Nariyama shihan has spent his life putting it into practice. Through basic kihon movements, paired kihon exercises, and “tsukuri,” they have shown us a clear path for anybody to progress and improve. I firmly believe that our Aikido plays a significant role in society, whether it be through lifelong physical education, self-defense, or fostering the strength to live fully.
The past few years have been challenging due to the COVID-19 pandemic, forcing us to cancel training sessions and events, and to restrict our activities. However, with the dedication of everyone involved and the passionate love for Aikido that brought us together, we were able to overcome these obstacles. The joy we experienced from successfully holding tournaments during the pandemic was truly rewarding. I sincerely thank you all.
I am proud to have walked this path alongside you as Chairman during this very difficult time. I have full confidence that my successor, Mr. Omori Ryuichi, will lead the federation to even greater success with his wealth of experience and leadership. I truly hope that our Aikido will continue to spread its benefits to many more people.
Lastly, I would like to express my deep gratitude for all the kindness and support you have shown me over the years. I ask for your continued guidance and encouragement in the future. I wish you all the best in health and happiness as I step down from this role.
October 17, 2024
Yamagata Masaaki
Former Chairman of the Board – NPO Shodokan Aikido Federation