Mike is currently a 4th degree black-belt instructor who began his Aikido training in 1989. He also holds a 2nd degree black-belt in Ryukyu Kempo Karate. He has studed many martial arts and holds rank in Judo, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, Shinbudo Crosstraining, and Shotokan Karate. MCFM Aikido Dojos are affiliated with the Mid-America Aikido Federation under Randy Bonifay Sensei . Mike continuously studies Japanese swordsmanship and uses the katana as a foundation of Aikido movement.

Mike approaches Aikido from both the martial and spiritual aspects. His technique is known for being extremely effective and at the same time soft and relaxed. Mike studied Aikikai Aikido for many years before affiliating with Bill Sosa Sensei 1934-2002 (Founder of the International Aikido Association) and strives to continue the Aikido that Sosa Sensei put forth.

Mike founded the Harmonious Sphere Martial Arts Academy in Fargo, ND in 1995. He then founded the Warrior’s Cove Aikido Program in 1997 and is currently the Chief Aikido Instructor for the MCFM Aikido Bukou Dojo in Hudson, WI and the MCFM Enso Aikido Dojo in Burnsville, MN. From 2001-2006 Mike was an Ad-hoc Professor at the University of Wisconsin - River Falls in the Health and Human Performance Dept. instructing for credit Aikido and Self-Defense classes. Mike travels extensively teaching self-defense courses to businesses and organizations and also providing P.A.C.T. (Police Aikido Control Tactics ) training to various law enforcement groups.

Mike makes his home in North Hudson, WI with his wife Corrie, daughters Veronica & Genevieve, and Puggle, Granger.

Phil is a 2nd degree black belt (nidan) in Aikido with the Mid America Aikido Federation and also holds a 2nd degree black belt in Seidokan Aikido. He began his studies with Dr. Guldbrandsen sensei and Bergeron sensei while attending college in Duluth, MN.  Phil now has been practicing since 1992 and instructed classes at Bally Total Fitness and the YMCA before staying with Ellefson Sensei in 2000.

Phil's main focus is how aikido can help people effect positive change in their lives, and regain control over what seems like like “everything happening at once”, using only the appropriate amount of effort.  Phil likes to see students have a good time in class, laughing while exploring new concepts.  He believes that learning does not need to stop, and always looks for challenges to pose himself and students.

Phil resides in south-central MN with wife Kirsten, two labradors, Sadie and Sammy, and two cute boys, Gabriel and Nicholas.

Corrie earned her Shodan in Aikido from Randy Bonifay Sensei in April 2005.  She is known for her friendly teaching style that mixes controlled relaxation with effective technique.  She has studied Aikido since 2000, and was the first woman promoted to shodan in the Mid America Aikido federation.  She has set the standard for the female warriors in our dojos.

Chris started Aikido under Ellefson Sensei in 2001.  Chris has extensive martial arts training, including a black belt in Chinese Kempo.  Along with being an accomplished martial artist, Chris is a TV program producer and the lead singer for the band Breathing Sand.  Chris earned his shodan from Bonifay Sensei in September of 2006.

Faith started Aikido under Ellefson Sensei in 2002.  She helped Ellefson sensei start the MCFM Kids Aikido program and has been integral to its success.  Faith has a degree in psychology from University of Wisconsin - River Falls and puts her understanding of human nature into her teaching.  Faith is an example of what a warrior should be.  She earned her shodan from Bonifay Sensei in September of 2006.

Mike Buenzli studied ASU Aikido for several years in Michigan before relocating with his family to Amery, Wisconsin.  In 2005 he found MCFM Aikido and has become a great asset to the dojos.  Mike is a teacher in the Amery school district and is know for his skills as an excellent uke. Mike earned his Shodan from Bonifay Sensei in May 2008.

Ginny has been a student of Ellefson Sensei since 2003 and earned her ikkyu in November 21st.  Ginny is a supervisor in federal law enforcement.  She is known for her great sense of humor and no-nonsense approach to her Aikido.