Chief Instructor

Lansing Area Aikikai

A Birankai International - North America Affiliated Dojo

CHIEF INSTRUCTOR

Frank Apodaca Sensei began his Aikido training in November 1985 at San Diego Aikikai under the direction of T. K. Chiba, 8th Dan, Shihan (Master Instructor). In 1987, he was accepted into Chiba Sensei’s Kenshusei program and as an Uchi Deshi. This is an intensive and comprehensive Aikido instructor’s training program. During this training, he progressed to the rank of sandan (3rd. dan) and received his Fukushidoin certification (assistant instructor) in December 1990. After additional years of committed study, he was promoted to yondan (4th dan) and certified as Shidoin (instructor) in February 1994.

Upon completing his apprenticeship in December 1994, he moved to Portland, Oregon to teach Aikido full-time as the Chief Instructor at Multnomah Aikikai. In January 2000, Apodaca Sensei was promoted to godan (5th dan). In October 2000, he moved to the mid-michigan area where he now resides with his family. In April of 2008 he was promoted to Rokudan (6th dan).