Sensei Stephen Steger Founder & Dojo Cho

Stephen Steger began his formal training in aikido at age 20, and by 1987 was a full-time apprentice and instructor under Sensei Smartt (Stockton CA). As a black belt, Stephen taught adult and children's classes, directed the junior's program, and earned his nidan (2nd-degree black belt) and teacher's certification.

In 1990 sensei Steger opened his first full-time dojo in Modesto CA, where he built a large vibrant community. As a dojo cho Stephen also trained extensively with Sensei Barrish (Granite Falls WA), earned his godan (5th-degree black belt), lead a variety of unique seminars (women's self defense, life purpose, ethical leadership, etc.), and trained around a dozen apprentices (most of whom have become respected teachers in their own right).

In 1999 Stephen and his wife Maureen moved to the California Central Coast, and began teaching full circle aikido. In 2005 they opened their beautiful family-friendly dojo in Grover Beach. Sensei Steger is a full-time instructor with more than 20 years of teaching experience, a husband, father, and follower of Christ dedicated to bringing a little light to a chaotic and dangerous world.

Maureen Steger Assistant Instructor

Maureen has been an aikidoist since 1992. She is a nidan (2nd degree black belt) and assistant instructor in the children's classes. Maureen is also a licensed marriage and family therapist in private practice, wife, and mother.

Teresa Mitchell Assistant Instructor

Teresa is Sensei Steger's apprentice, full-time assistant instuctor, and the JR FUNdamnetals class instructor.