Experienced instructors.
Welcoming training.
The Midwest Aikido Center's teaching staff brings decades of combined experience to the mat, with a shared commitment to patient, thoughtful instruction. Whether you are completely new to aikido or returning after years away, you'll find serious training in a supportive dojo community.
What students can expect from our instructors
Technical Continuity
Rooted in the MAC's tradition
Instruction grounded in the traditions of the Midwest Aikido Center and the legacy of Akira Tohei Shihan — consistent across all regular classes.
Patience with Beginners
Space to learn at your pace
A welcoming teaching approach that gives new students room to learn carefully and confidently, without pressure to advance before they're ready.
Breadth of Instruction
Multiple perspectives
Regular access to instructors across the week, each with their own teaching style — all within a shared dojo standard that keeps training coherent.
Community Leadership
A volunteer-driven culture
A dojo supported by committees, shared responsibility, and long-term commitment. Instructors teach because they care deeply about the art and the dojo community.
Teaching Staff
Naomi Wentworth
Rokudan
Naomi began aikido at the Midwest Aikido Center in 1983 under Akira Tohei Shihan. Nominated to the MAC's Technical Committee in 2015, she now serves as Chief Instructor and helps guide the dojo's technical standards with clarity and patience.
Kyoshi Yasutake
Rokudan
Jaime DeJesus
Rokudan
Rock Lazo
Rokudan
Cyril Landise
Rokudan
Victor Ancer
Rokudan
Dave Kedney
Godan
Wendy Kopka
Godan
Steve Kopka
Godan
Guy Ponko
Yondan
J. Cervantes
Yondan
Robert Kolada
Nidan
Lana Medvedeva
Shodan
Wendy Guyer
Yondan
Dimitrina Dimitrova
Sandan
Tony Clinard
Nidan
Giulio Galassi
Shodan
Raul Gutierrez
Shodan
“Practicing Aikido at the MAC offers me an ‘as needed’ break from the overstimulation and grind of daily life. The dojo facility is world class and kept spotless; instructors are highly skilled and supportive; classes are structured but self-paced and focused on safety. Hope to see you there!”
Gene — MAC member