Instructors
Jeff Sterling
The California Bujinkan Dojo was founded and is led by DaiShihan Jeff Sterling, jugodan (15th degree black belt). Mr. Sterling has been a certified member of the Bujinkan Shidoshi Kai (teacher's association) since 1995 and has been training within the Bujinkan for more than 30 years. He travels regularly to go to see Bujinkan Grandmaster Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi as well as other senior Bujinkan instructors to continue his learning and training.
Shawn McGrady
In the "Ninja Boom" of the '80s and 90s, after not being satisfied with judo and karate, Shawn promised himself that he would seek out true ninjutsu. In 2002, he signed up for a home studies program, which led him to the Bujinkan and also his first teacher. He knew right away that this was the real deal thus fulfilling his promise to pursue his passion.
Shihan Shawn McGrady currently holds the rank of judan (10th degree black belt) as authorized by Grandmaster Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi, and he frequently travels to Japan to train and share his dedication with others. Shawn is a certified Bujinkan Shidoshi Kai member.
Colleen Schintgen
Shidoshi Colleen Schintgen, godan (5th degree black belt), has been training in the Bujinkan arts since 1999, but really began to focus on her training after a heart-to-heart visit with Shihan "Papasan" Ed Martin, 15th dan who inspired her to believe that everyone can benefit and participate in our training. She is CPR/First Aid certified and a licensed Child Day Care Professional that has over 25 years instructing children. Shidoshi Colleen teaches our Little Ninjas and Ninja Kids classes, for our youngest practitioners.