The Ateneo de Manila University Aikido Club: A Short History
Not everyone on campus knows that there is an Ateneo Aikido Club. The truth is that this club is one of the older ones in Ateneo, having been organized in 1991. But if you happen to ask the right persons about aikido on campus, you will be advised to contact the English Department in the Loyola Schools. This is because the Ateneo Aikido
Club has been nurtured in this department from the very beginning. The group of Cervini residents who started the club found its first teacher in the English Department. Ferrer, a PhD in Comparative Literature from U.P. Diliman, was also a judo and aikido blackbelt. The club was managed by this group of students as a “dorm club” at first, until they all graduated. Then Ada Loredo of the faculty of the Department of English, who has been with the club since it started, took over its management, with the help of Prixie Tan Cruz and BJ Patiño. Currently, the Club is managed by Roy Agustin. Through this club, aikido, that unique martial art from Japan, has been enjoyed by members of the Ateneo community for 32 years now, since membership has opened not only to students and teachers, but to every Atenista who is interested, and anyone who is in some way connected to Ateneo—spouses and children; parents and siblings of students; relatives; friends. So far there has been one Jesuit in the club, the late and beloved Fr. Joey Fermin, Headmaster of the Ateneo Grade School. The instructors (sensei) who have been coming to Blue Eagle Gym two or three times a week to teach aikido are senior black-belts from various dojos in Metro Manila. Today the instructors come from Aikido Philippines (AikiPhil), a federation recognized by Hombu Japan, the main headquarters of Aikido. By tradition, these instructors do not receive a salary; they teach aikido as part of their own practice. Those interested in joining the Ateneo Aikido Club can come to the Multi-purpose room of the College Covered Courts during practice time. They can either observe or join right away. No experience is necessary. Practice schedule:
Tuesdays and Fridays, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Mat fee per session: Php 200 per session
For inquiries, call or message Roy Agustin @ 09177942154
