The Daitoryu Aikijujutsu Roppokai, North Carolina Branch is an official study group of the Daitoryu Aikijujutsu Roppokai. The Daitoryu Aikijujutsu Roppokai is led by Head Master Seigo Okamoto. Information on the art may be obtained from the International Website - www.daitoryu-roppokai.org.

Daitoryu Aikijujutsu Roppokai, was established in North Carolina in the year 2001. We are very grateful to be training under Okamoto Sensei. Okamoto Sensei visited North Carolina and personally authorized Mr. Tom Cohen to begin a study group.

Many famous martial artists have studied Daitoryu. The most famous was Aikido founder, Morihei Ueshiba. Ueshiba was a student of Sokaku Takeda of Daitoryu Aikijujutsu. Many historians consider Daitoryu to be the parent art of Aikido.

The linage of the Roppokai is as follows - Takeda Sokaku - Kodo Horikawa - Okamoto Seigo. Okamoto Sensei established the Roppokai in Tokyo in 1980, after the passing of Master Kodo.

Our friends and training partners in New York are lead by Howard Popkin. Popkin Sensei is one of the highest-ranking Roppokai members in the US, and their group will be celebrating their 10th Anniversary in 2007. We are grateful for Popkin Sensei’s advice, guidance, and assistance in helping our group grow.

Currently, we have members in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Greenville, NC. We welcome any interested parties, provided they follow the rules and regulations set forth by Okamoto Sensei and the Board Members of the Daitoryu Aikijujutsu Roppokai, Tokyo, Japan. While experience isn't necessary, training in the art of Ukemi(falling) is very helpful, but don't worry, beginners are always welcome.

Tom Cohen is a not only member of the Daitoryu Aikijujutsu Roppokai, but a teacher of Taiqi and Aikido. Mr. Cohen, licensed massage therapist, teaches Asian therapies to other massage therapists and health professionals, and is currently seeking his acupuncture license.

The Members of the Daitoryu Aikijujutsu Roppokai, North Carolina Branch currently practice at a school called Mint Hill Martial Arts. Its owner, Chris Facente, teaches Sil Lum Kung Fu. We are grateful to be associated with such an excellent group of traditional Martial Artists. If you have an interested in Daitoryu Aikijujutsu Roppokai, please check out our website at - www.martialartsnc.com

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Contribution by Tom Cohen, Daitoryu Aikijujutsu Roppokai

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