Our Instructors
Brad Rettew, 4th Dan
Brad is our Chief Instructor, with over 30 years studying Aikido under Jerry Zimmerman Sensei and 25 years as a grade school teacher. Brad’s teaching style is one that perfectly encapsulates the philosophy of Aikido: awareness, blending, protecting yourself and your attacker, and learning to deliver effective responses regardless of the situation.
Brad works with students at all stages of their journey, also teaching our high-energy Advanced classes. His deep knowledge of Aikido and his decades of experience as a classroom teacher make him a caring, effective, and inspiring instructor.
Mike Bell, 1st Dan
Mike Bell is the dojo owner and Head Instructor of the kids and teens program. He began studying with Zimmerman Sensei in 1999 and has over 20 years experience as a classroom teacher. Mike has taught middle and high school students in English and math, served as a grade level and academic dean, and currently tutors students of all ages.
Mike brings his expertise in classroom management, discipline, and empathetic childcare to the kids program. His classes teach kids and teens to develop not just their physical ability but also their minds, compassion, and social awareness. Mike believes that Aikido is a powerful tool not just for defusing conflict but for finding ourselves. His classes are joyful and dynamic. He works with students starting at age 6 and also teaches the occasional adults class.
Brian Vacante, 4th Dan
Brian has been studying Aikido for over 30 years since he was 14 years old. His training began under Greg O’Connor Sensei at Aikido Centers of NJ, before he moved to the Aikido Center of Dover and then Aikido North Jersey in 2010.
Brian is a Fire Safety Manager in Jersey City, and is certified in Adult and Pediatric CPR, AED, and First Aid. In addition to Aikido, Brian is also a student of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai. He regularly assists with our kids and teens classes.