Aikido of Fresno - Instructors

Instructors

Florian Tan

Chief Instructor

Born in the Netherlands, Florian Tan began studying martial arts at the age of ten and continues to gain knowledge through his lifetime practice. Florian’s pursuit for knowledge is apparent with a deep, powerful commitment and a passionate determination. For more than 15 years, he’s been driven by a desire for deeper understanding and began including meditation and open-ended inquiry in his studies. He follows the teachings of the Diamond Approach, of which he has been a student since 2002.

Florian’s martial arts interests include: Karate, Tai Ki Ken, Thai Boxing, Tai Chi Chuan, Cheng Hsin, Systema, Jiu Jitsu, Iaido and Aikido. He has also studied physical therapy and different kinds of bodywork such as; Alexander Technique, Thai massage and reflexology.

Florian’s studies have focused intensively on Aikido since 1992. He’s taught Aikido full-time as chief instructor at Aikido of Fresno since 2001. In his role as an Aikido instructor, Florian is committed to contribute to the development of humanity in the service of ultimate spiritual Truth and his teaching style supports the individual growth of each student.

Florian continues to be drawn to following his deep desire for development toward spiritual maturity, completeness, and living this realization of truth in today’s complex world. In addition to following these passionate pursuits, his desire for learning has lead to traveling through different countries in Europe, Asia, Canada and the United States.

A more complete Aikido-related profile of Florian Tan can be found on the California Aikido Association website. Click on "Spotlight On" and go to the June 2004 selection.

Mary Jo Oliveri

Mary Jo Oliveri leads the Yoga program at Aikido of Fresno dojo under the name of Rasa Yoga. Oliveri has been studying Yoga since 1999 at Aikido of Fresno with Patrick Cassidy for two years and with Durward Burrell for three years.

Tim Shiomi

Born in Japan, Shiomi sensei came to the United States in 1962. Shiomi sensei began his karate training in 1965 under Kazuo Kuriyama and Toyotaro Miyazaki. He moved to Hawaii in 1970 in order to continue his karate education and began his study under the tutelage of Sensei Chuzo Kotaka, a former All-Japan Champion.

In 1997, Shiomi sensei joined the Japan Karate Do Kai under the late Soke Kenzo Mabuni. Shiomi sensei received the title of Kyoshi and a 7th Dan from Soke Mabuni in 2005.

In 2002, Shiomi sensei was awarded Sho Dan in Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu iai do from Hanshi Shimabukuro. Soon after that, Shiomi sensei was introduced to Toyama Ryu Iai Do Kai in Kyoto, Japan.

Shiomi sensei currently holds a 5th Dan and is affiliated with the Toyama Ryu Iai Do Kai. He is the head of Toyama Ryu Iai Do Kai in the United States.