Instructors Biographies: Donnie Gibbs Sensei Overview

Donnie Gibbs Sensei started his martial arts training in 1985 as a member of the Seiei Kan Karate under the instruction of Master Walter Rice and Terry Nolan Sensei. Upon arriving at college he began his training in the martial art of Judo with Ben VanArsdale Sensei and the Eastern Kentucky Judo team. During the summer breaks at college, Mr. Gibbs would assist Charles Ward with self defense classes for EKU employees and students. In 1994, he was introduced to the art of Aikido. In 2002, Mr. Gibbs became the business manager / executive director and senior instructor for Ronin Bushido Karate Club.

In September 2005, Mr. Gibbs joined Bluegrass Budokai to assist in providing quality martial instruction in the arts of Judo, Aikido, and Iaido for youth and adults.

Gibbs Sensei has led various students in the private, public, and governmental sectors. A brief timeline follows:

May 1985 - June 1987: Member of Seiei Kan Karate Club. Served as asst. instructor for a period of time.

September 1991 to June 1996: Member of Eastern Kentucky Judo Team. Fought competitively and trained in Kodokan Judo, served as asst. instructor for a period of time for self defense and team classes.

February 1994 - August 2005: Member of Ronin Bushido Karate Club

June 2002 - August 2005: Served as Senior Instructor and Executive Director of Ronin Bushido Karate Club.

Jan 2005 - Present: Senior Instructor of Be Safe© a program teaching basic self-defense principles in the public, private and organizational environment.

August 2003 - Present: Member of North American San Shin Kai and student of Muso Shinden Ryu Iaido,

September 2005 - Present: Member of Bluegrass Budokai, severs as Director of Youth for Aikido and study group leader for Iaido and senior instructor in Judo.

March 2006 Volunteer judge for Kentucky's Bluegrass State Games.