OUR TEAM

  • Young man in black martial arts uniform wearing a chest protector against a wooden wall.

    M.Koyama, 5 Dan - Instructor

    Koyama Sensei began his kendo journey under his father, who instilled in him traditional kendo values, discipline, perseverance, and self-improvement. Now with over 25 years of kendo experience, he is committed to sharing those same values and life skills at Brooklyn Kenyukai. He has competed at the All United States Kendo Championships, representing the Southern United States Kendo & Iaido Federation Team (2011, 2014) and the All Eastern United States Kendo Federation Team (2017).

    Outside the dojo, Koyama Sensei enjoys hiking and camping with his wife and rescue dog, Teddy!

  • Man in traditional martial arts uniform wearing protective gear, standing indoors in front of a wooden wall.

    I. Yoshino, 5 Dan - Instructor

    Starting kendo at the age of 5, Yoshino Sensei throughout his youth, trained rigorously and actively competed at local, prefectural, and national tournaments, which led him to becoming a core member of his university kendo team. Not only does Yoshino Sensei bring a wealth of technical expertise, he is committed to teaching traditional Japanese-style Kendo and proper etiquette, values and skills that can be applied both in and out of the dojo.

    When away from kendo, he loves to cook for his family and friends, especially his signature dishes: smoked bacon and handmade gyoza. He is a parent of two children, aged five and seven, and they keep him busy and inspired everyday!

  • Woman in black martial arts uniform smiling, standing in front of a wooden wall, wearing a black chest protector and earrings.

    E. Kosakaya, 4 Dan - Instructor

    Kosakaya Sensei started practicing Kendo at the age of six in Ibaraki, Japan. Having practiced throughout her youth, kendo has helped her build confidence, discipline, and a never ending pursuit of self-improvement. She hopes to share the energy, perseverance, and technical skills at Brooklyn Kenyukai while continuing to grow and develop her kendo alongside students and members.

    When not practicing or teaching kendo, Kosakaya Sensei is devoted to raising her loving son, while balancing life, work, kendo, and being a mother! She loves to connect with fellow parents and share tips and experiences along the way.

  • A woman with short brown hair wearing a black protectve vest over a black traditional martial arts uniform standing in front of a wooden wall, smiling at the camera.

    A. Johnson, 2 Dan - Manager

    Ai San started Kendo in junior high school in Ehime, Japan. After many years away, her love for kendo reignited, where she restarted her kendo journey here at Brooklyn Kenyukai. With her many talents, Ai San plays a prominent role of assisting our members and the instructors in ensuring that the dojo is run smoothly and safely.

    When not practicing Kendo, you can find her providing her extensive expertise on feng shui and interior design, singing and songwriting music and caring for her lovable cats, Kujira and Kanpachi!