Mt. Scopus Dojo: Background

Mt. Scopus Dojo is the very first Aikido dojo established in Israel.

The Dojo’s tradition begun in 1979, by Robin, J, Heifetz, from Seidokan Hombu Dojo (Headquarters) in LA. Heifetz Sensei, who then held the rank of Nidan (Second Degree black belt), had made Aliah, and lived in the near by French Hill. Heifetz Sensei began teaching musicology at the Hebrew University, Jerusalem. Among some, he was known as the Three Ms person: first, he was a Martial Artist; then, he was also a Musician and composer, holding a PhD in musicology (digital and experimental); lastly—the third M—Heifetz Sensei was a certified Magician, member of the American Magicians Association.
After a period of some six years, during which Heifetz Sensei established a vibrant dojo at the Mt. Scopus campus, with many devoted practitioners, Heifetz Sensei left back to the USA. He later returned for two short seminars.

The dojo was later headed for a long period of time by Ron Havilio, and later by Naftali Shimron. Presently, it is headed by Chaim Noy.

1986 Seidokan Certificate

Wedell Sensei Seminar, 2000

Wedell Sensei with Israeli Yudansha

Ron Havilio and others cleaning up after Dojo flooding

Washing mats after Dojo flooding