The School of Sword & Staff, located in Santa Cruz, California, continues the Japanese tradition of transmitting the ideals, techniques, and training from teacher to teacher, and teacher to student. Only through the mastery of ourselves can we fully understand the Way of the Sword and Staff. Our students do not wear belts to show their rank. When they perform, their grace, focus, centeredness, and internal power clearly demonstrates their achievement.

IAIDO (Way of the Sword) requires self discipline and precision of movement from each of its students. As the training progresses, you realize there is always a higher level of perfection than the one you have just mastered. Our study of Bojitsu (staff techniques), with padded staffs, allows us to spar in a very strong manner, without injuring our opponent. We embrace in our sparring the Samurai traditions of: "live or die makes no difference," and "today is a beautiful day to die." You learn to do what needs to be done without thought or fear.

It is our philosophy not to engage in fighting, but to end aggression in the most swift appropriate manner. In the combining of the Way of the Sword with Staff fighting techniques, we have created a vigorous training program for mind, body and spirit. All of us, at the School of Sword and Staff very much enjoy our time training together. If what you read on this website appeals to you, please join us in training.

Sport Combat— Learn more about how to fight with soft padded weapons, so that it is possible to use all weapon techniques and not be injured.