Our Instructors

SENSEI Richard Facer - ChieF INSTRUCTOR

Richard Facer Sensei emigrated to the United States in 1999 from Grimsby, England where he studied Judo. He began practicing Aikido and has been an active member of Aikido of Flagstaff since 2001. He received his 1st Dan (Shodan) rank in 2009 while studying under Sensei Bob Frumhoff (5th Dan) and was promoted to 2nd Dan (Nidan) in 2016 by Sensei John Messores, Shihan (7th Dan).

Facer Sensei’s teaching focuses on the movement and philosophy of Aikido and the constant journey of discovery and growth on a physical, spiritual, and emotional level. His primary goal is to share the Art of Aikido to as many people as possible.

His main influences in his style of instruction are: O Sensei, Saotome Shihan, Ikeda Shihan, and former AOF instructors Bob Frumhoff Sensei, George Koch Sensei, and Trent Boudreaux Sensei.

Facer Sensei is eternally thankful for the many relationships and friendships gained and formed, through Aikido, in the Flagstaff Community and greater Aikido Community worldwide.

Tania Boeskin

Tania Boeskin Sensei has been practicing aikido for over 22 years. She began training at Aikido of Flagstaff in 1999 and received her 1st Dan (Shodan) rank in 2006. Over the years, Tania has served as both a coach and an instructor. In 2016, she was promoted to 2nd Dan (Nidan) by Sensei John Messores, Shihan (7th Dan).

Karen Carswell

Karen Carswell hails from New Jersey where she trained in Okinawan karate. She began practicing Aikido in 2001 after relocating to Flagstaff. In 2009, she received her 1st Dan (Shodan) rank. Her current rank of 2nd Dan (Nidan) was awarded in 2016 by Sensei John Messores, Shihan (7th Dan).