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Michigan Technological University Recreation

Michigan Technological University Recreation

Youth Aikido

Youth Aikido

AIKIDO NANZAN DOJO

Registration and payment can be completed online. Participants must sign liability waiver and concussion awareness forms prior to participation. The SDC is not responsible for lost or stolen property. Please do not leave valuables unattended.

Aikido is a modern Japanese martial arts training that focuses on the power of body movements and momentum rather than punches and kicks. Students learn blocking, rolling, locking, and throwing movements to control the force of an opponent. It’s a great way for children and teens to gain confidence, practice focus and concentration, and learn non-violent strategies for self-defense.

Level 2: 7-10 yrs old

Level 3: 11-14 yrs old

Level 4: minimum age is 11 with instructor permission. Level 4 children must follow directions using props/tools (plastic staffs and swords, wood staffs) without horseplay. The instructor may withdraw a child from the class if they cannot use the props as instructed.

Location

SDC Studio

Special Requirements

Uniforms are required and are available for purchase for $35 on the first day of class. For more information, contact Mark at mjcampbe@mtu.edu.

FALL 2025 SESSION 1: September 5 - October 10

Registration opens August 20, 8:00 am.

Day/Time

  • Level 2 (age 7-10) - Friday, 6:15-7:05 pm
  • Level 3 (age 11-14) - Friday, 6:15-8:05 pm
  • Level 4 (age 11+ with instructor approval) - Friday, 7:15-9:05 pm

Session 1 Cost

Level 2-4: $42

No day passes. NOT included in the HuskiesFit Group Fitness Semester Pass.
 

FALL 2025 SESSION 2: October 24 - December 5

Registration opens August 20, 8:00 am. No class November 21, 28.

Day/Time

  • Level 2 (age 7-10) - Friday, 6:15-7:05 pm
  • Level 3 (age 11-14) - Friday, 6:15-8:05 pm
  • Level 4 (age 11+ with instructor approval) - Friday, 7:15-9:05 pm

Session 2 Cost

Level 2-4: $35

No day passes. NOT included in the HuskiesFit Group Fitness Semester Pass.


About the Instructors

Mark Campbell-Olszewski, Aikido Coordinator/Instructor

Mark Campbell-Olszewski is the coordinator of the Aikido program at Michigan Tech. He has studied Aikido under Mitsugi Saotome Sensei for over 26 years and holds the rank of 5th-degree black belt. He received his master's degree in clinical psychology from the University of Alabama in Birmingham in 1983. Mark considers Aikido a perfect blend of his two passions—martial arts and psychology—and considers himself privileged to teach these principles to community children and adults.

The Aikido program at Michigan Tech is affiliated with the Aikido Schools of Ueshiba (ASU) an international organization under the umbrella of the Aikikai Foundation, Aikido World Headquarters.

Email: mjcampbe@mtu.edu

Rae Hix, Youth Aikido Instructor 

Rae Hix has studied various martial arts since she was 7 years old, as well as dance and theater. She has been studying and practicing Aikido for 6 years under the tutelage of Sensei Mark Campbell-Olszewski. As a martial artist from a young age, Rae is excited to share the fun, joy of movement, and meaningful discipline of Aikido with the next generation.

Email: rhix@mtu.edu

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