OUR PEOPLE
INSTRUCTORS
Dan Hayes
Sensei
Dan Sensei is Kancho of Island Budokan Karate and Judo (IBKJ). With over 50 years of experience practicing and teaching karate, he believes that the practice of karate creates a path to self-discovery and immense personal development. He aims to lead as many students as are interested down this path.- Rank: Nanadan - practicing since 1973
- Style: Judo, Shotokan Shorinryu Bo Jutsu, Sai Jutsu, Washinryu, Kyokushinai, Vin Tsun, Dai Qui Quan, Aikido, Kendo, Yagyu Shinkage Ryu, Kenjutsu, Taido
- Member of the 2000 U.S. Olympic Koshiki Team
- Certifications: CPT, CPR, BLS
- MALS in Education: Stony Brook University
- MALS in Education: Stony Brook University
Paris Otero
Sensei
Paris Sensei became a karateka at a young age, and has continued to develop her training into adulthood. A dedicated leader, she is a fantastic resource for both children and adult students in the dojo.- Rank: Sandan - practicing since 2002
- Style: Judo, Kendo, Yagyu Shinkage Ryu, Toyamaryu/Seigo Ryu Iai
- BA in Sociology: Stony Brook University
Ian Rosenblatt
Sensei
Ian Sensei is widely respected for his dedication to the practice, study, and teaching of Budo. He currently leads our Connecticut affiliate school, IB Dojo - SKWHWF, as Fukukancho.- Rank: Sandan - practicing since 1999
- Style: Judo, Kendo, Yagyu Shinkage Ryu, Toyamaryu/Seigo Ryu Iai
- Experience in Aikido and Jujutsu
- Certifications: BLS and CPR
- BS in Marine Biology: University of Connecticut
Maria Zengara
Senpai
Maria Senpai brings with her invaluable life and training experience to the IBKJ community. Not only do our juniors trust and respect her, but Maria's fellow seniors also often call upon her for fair and clear assessments of their own progress.- Rank: Nidan - practicing since 1997
- Style: Judo; Kendo; Yagyu Shinkage Ryu; Toyamaryu/Seigo Ryu Iai; experience in Aikido and Jujutsu
- Certifications: BLS and CPR
- Background: Licensed Naturopathic Doctor, Acupuncturist, Herbalist
Jason Brodsky
Sensei
Jason Sensei is working with Island Budokan in conjunction with Smithtown Judo, where he has been teaching Kodokan Judo since 2004. With over 40 years of experience learning, practicing, and teaching Judo, he is excited to share all the mental and physical benefits Judo has to offer.- Rank: Yodan - practicing since 1980
- Style: Kodokan Judo
- Long Island Empire State Judo Team: 10-time member, former state champion, former coach
- Certifications: First Aid, CPR, AED, Concussion, Safe Sport
- MA in Physical Education: Adelphi University