In 2014 Derek and Diana Hedstrom came to Chugiak with the goal of bringing regular Aikido practice to Eagle River and the surrounding communities. The opening of Aikido Borealis dojo in the fall of 2015 was the culmination of that effort.

Derek Sensei began his Aikido training in 1996 with Calvin Koshiyama Sensei at Aikido North in Anchorage Alaska, a member of the California Aikido Association (CAA) under Frank Doran Shihan. In 2019 Diana and Derek joined the Aikido Schools of Ueshiba (ASU) headed by Mitsugi Saotome Shihan. Derek Sensei received his present rank of 4th Degree Black Belt in 2022.

With over 20 years of experience teaching both junior and adult classes, Derek Sensei enjoys sharing the joys and frustrations of training with students of all ages in a safe, open and welcoming atmosphere. Despite his instructor role, he considers himself primarily a student and continues to attend several seminars a year, featuring top instructors from around the United States.

Diana Sensei began training at Aikido North in 1998 and made 3rd Degree Black Belt in 2023. A retired certified high school counselor and teacher of 25 years, she brings her experience and love of teaching to her classes at Aikido Borealis and always strives to make Aikido be a safe, nurturing and unconditionally positive environment for growth.