USAF | United States Aikido Federation | 2011

Proper Etiquette when inviting Non-USAF Instructors to a USAF dojo

It is important to understand the proper protocol and etiquette that should be observed when inviting an instructor
who is not a USAF member to teach a class or a seminar at your dojo. Just as it is correct to be respectful with each
other, it is also proper etiquette to inform Yamada Sensei of the invitation. In addition, the invited instructor should
notify Yamada Sensei of the invitation to instruct at a USAF dojo and to thank him for the opportunity. Not only do
we anticipate these relationships to continue and grow in the future, we encourage our members to interact and train
with members of other organizations. By following this simple yet meaningful process, an open dialogue will prevail
and a mutual understanding and respectful environment will be encouraged.

Similarly, should you be invited to instruct at a non-USAF dojo or seminar, it is proper to inform Yamada Sensei of
the invitation you have received, as well as to notify the head of the other organization to thank him or her for the
opportunity to teach at their member dojo. This will cast a very positive light on the USAF and the caliber of its
members, as well as on you, the invited instructor. Regardless of origin, nationality or Aikido affiliation, this is the
kind of respectful behavior that is inherent in Aikido techniques, and one that we would like to foster in our
community, hopefully as a model for others to follow.

Laura Pavlick
Director of Operations