Instructors
At Aikido RVA South
Stefanelli Sensei, Dojocho
Mike Stefanelli Sensei began his Martial Arts training when he was 14. He has trained in several striking arts including, Tae Kwon Do, Boxing, and Kick Bocking. He began his Wadokai Aikido training in 2016 under Christine Golden Shihan, Jerome Legions Shihan, and James Golden Sensei. Stefanelli Sensei was awarded the rank of Nidan in 2023.
Golden Shihan
Golden Shihan began her study of Aikido in 2007. She holds the rank of Yondan in Suenaka-Ha Tetsugaku-ho Aikido. She also holds rank and interest in Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Judo, and Ki Society Aikido. Active as a Police Officer in the city of Richmond, Golden Shihan hopes to continue her training and development for many more years to come.
Branch Sensei
Branch sensei started training in Wadokai Aikido in 2012 at the College of Charleston, SC, under Epperson Shihan. He then trained at Hombu dojo with Suenaka Sensei for a number of years before moving to Richmond and joining Aikido RVA South. He is a Nidan (second degree black belt) as of 2021.
Walls Sensei
Walls sensei began martial training in Taekwondoe and Tai Chi, then found his way to Aikikai Aikido between 1990 and 1995. In 2012 Walls sensei started studying Wadokai Aikido under James Golden sensei, received his Nidan (second degree black belt) in 2021, and continues training regularly at both Richmond Wadokai locations. He also currently trains in Wing Chun.
Orthman Sensei
Orthman sensei received his Shodan (first degree black belt) in Wadokai Aikido in 2021. He regularly attends both Aikido RVA South and Aikido RVA, and he also trains in jiu jitsu and grappling, as well as Rucking, at Mongrel Martial Arts.
