The Aikido Club of Queens

Chief Instructor: Mr. Perry Dortch
DOJO AFFILIATION: United States Aikido Federation’s Eastern Region

The goal of Aikido training is not perfection of a step or skill, but to improve one's character worshiping the rule of nature so that one becomes "tough" inside in such a way that this strength is expressed softly in movement. This is exactly like nature: Nature's movements are efficient, rational, and soft, but the center is immovable, firm, and stable. This can be said for Space and Earth -- they all have a hard core -- and must be true for human beings. These cores should become as one, so that the culmination of nature can be expressed. (Photo courtesy of Aikido World Headquarters)

Maintaining this firm, stable, center, Aikido movement, with its emphasis on spherical rotation, is characterized by flowing, almost dance like, circular motions (pivoting, entering, circling) that are used to overcome and control the strength of the opponent. The principle of spherical rotation makes it possible to defend one's self from an opponent of superior size, strength, and experience.

Although Aikido movements are as soft, rational, and smooth as nature, by applying a bit of force, it can become "tough" and devastating. The soft or gentle quality of Aikido makes it appealing to people of all ages. In fact, Aikido can be enjoyed by all -- men and women (regardless of age) and children. It not only offers spiritual development, but also provides exercise and teaches proper etiquette and behavior.
(Aikido World Headquarters: Characteristics of Aikido Techniques)

We are members of the United States Aikido Federation Eastern Region. The Aikido Club of Queens was founded in 1995, teaching traditional Aikido to children and adults.

The Aikido Club of Queens is the first and only school that has been authorized to teach traditional Ueshiba Aikido in Eastern Queens by the United States Aikido Federation. We follow all of the guidelines given to us by Yamada Sensei 8^th Dan, Chairman of the United States Aikido Federation. Our Dojo has been built and operates based upon those guidelines and principles. Our emphasis is on relaxation, self-discipline, confidence building and fitness. Our goal is to enhance a student’s personal growth through sincere practice.

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings 8:30 to 9:30PM.
Sunday 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Sensei Perry Dortch

Mr. Perry Dortch is the founder and chief instructor of the Aikido Club of Queens. Dortch Sensei has been a member in good standing of the United States Aikido Federation for twenty years. The Aikido Club of Queens is part of the United States Aikido Federation’s Eastern Region. Mr. Dortch began his training at the New York Aikikai under the guidance of Yamada Sensei 8^th Dan. His training continued throughout the years studying and learning Aikido from Hagihara Sensei 7^th Dan, Chief Instructor of the Long Island Aikido Association. Mr. Dortch enveloped himself in Hagihara Sensei’s teachings. The high standards that Mr. Hagihara expects from his students have been passed down to Mr. Dortch. The emphasis of ukemi waza (The art of falling) and the understanding that Uke is there to assist the Nage so that the Nage can improve is a priority. Mr. Dortch believes that creating an environment of cooperation rather then resistance is the key to practicing Aikido. His training continued throughout the years studying and practicing Aikido under the tutelage of Hagihara Sensei, chief instructor of the Long Island Aikido Association.

Mr. Dortch is married and has two children. He has earned a BA in Health Education and a MA in Physical Education/Education. He is state certified as a Health and Physical Educator and presently teaches High School for the NYC Board of Education. Mr. Dortch also coaches Varsity Basketball for the Public School Athletic League, teaching some of the most talented athletes in the city.

Dortch Sensei’s goal was to bring traditional Aikido to eastern Queens; he has succeeded, teaching a countless number of students of all ages. He continues to instruct with his most special and unique style.

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