About Salvatore (Sal) Pinzone ShihanSalvatore Pinzone Shihan started his martial arts journey in the 1980’s with Jujitsu under Professor James Powers of the Samurai VEE-Ju-Jitsu Club. In 1993 while stationed overseas Salvatore Pinzone Shihan was introduced to Aikido and began his studies in the art. Upon his discharge from the military, and returning home to New York, he continued on his journey in Aikido with Aikido of Nassau County which is associated to USAF (United States Aikido Federation) under Yamada Sensei, reaching the rank of 2nd Kyu. In 2003 Salvatore Pinzone Shihan and his family moved to Arizona where his Aikido journey continued with Arizona Aikido which is associated to ASU (Aikido Schools of Ueshiba) under Saotome Sensei, receiving the rank of 1st Kyu. In 2009 Salvatore Pinzone Shihan continued his training with Highland Aikido under Charles Lewis Sensei who is associated to IAA (International Aikido Association) under Rick Sosa Sensei. In November 2010 Salvatore Pinzone Shihan was tested and promoted to the rank of Shodan (1st Degree Black Belt). In January 2013 he was tested and promoted to the rank of Nidan (2nd Degree Black Belt). In August 2016 he was tested and promoted to the rank of Sandan (3rd Degree Black Belt). In October 2017 he was tested and promoted to the rank of Yondan (4th Degree Black Belt), in June 2019 promoted to the rank of Godan (5th Degree Black Belt) under Charles Lewis Sensei of Highland Aikido. In January 2022 was promoted to the rank of Nanadan (7th Degree Black Belt), in August 2023 was promoted to rank of Hachidan, Shihan (8th Degree Black Belt) by Kevin O'Connor Hanshi of International Shinbudo Organisation UK and Keith Morgan Hanshi from Shin gi tai ( guest coach/ grading officer). Salvatore Pinzone Shihan also holds an Instructor’s certificate in the Israeli hand to hand combat art of KAPAP which he received in 2016 under Avi Nardia Sensei in New Hampshire. Salvatore Pinzone Shihan has taught many Aikido classes. He has been a guest speaker/presenter at various seminars. His students range from kids to elderly. He values that Aikido is a defensive art and can be accommodated for all ages and abilities. The practice of Aikido brings stamina and strengthening. Salvatore Pinzone Shihan values dedication, respect and appreciation for the art of Aikido and its influence on daily routines in life. |