Dai-Shihan (Ninjutsu Senior Master Instructor) Rick Spangler, Jugodan (15th Dan, 2014 ) established the Illinois Bujinkan Dojo in 1989, & will always consider himself a student of this style. We are part of the International Bujinkan Dojo (over 900 years of tradition). The Bujinkan Dojo is run by the 34th generation Leader ( Soke ), Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi of Noda City, Japan. Our purpose is to provide authentic, traditional ninja training to good-hearted people. General disclaimer: not all books, websites, or articles necessarily reflect the views of this dojo or its instructor. Practice at your own risk and do not train without proper instruction.
Rick Spangler Dai-Shihan, officially began his martial arts training in 1981 & he passed the Godan test in 1993, administered personally by Hatsumi Soke of Japan. Spangler now as a 15th degree blackbelt (highest rank possible) provides training in various locations across Illinois & special seminars out of state. He also holds various ranks, titles, and or additional qualifications in Tang Soo Do, wrestling, archery, survival, police firearms training, Criminal Justice, certified private pilot, skydiver, certified scuba diver, certified 1st Aid caregiver. He also teaches VIP protection tactics, women’s self-defense groups, children’s groups, and security teams.
Dai-Shihan Spangler is a Graduate, 1992, of the Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. Attaining a Bachelor of Science degree, in Administration of Justice(Criminal Justice). While at College he was a member of the Air Force and Army Reserve Officer Training Corps program running morning PT training, & attaining the highest underclassman cadet rank, & achieving the Warrior Spirit Award of Detachment 205.
He also worked with three Police departments over the years, one at SIU-PD, and the other within county Sheriff’s office. Assignments included: undercover, auxiliary police officer, and employed as general security. Also OPFOR (bad guy) for SWAT Team training. Spangler led a special security detail, for the visiting Illinois Governor, Bruce Rauner. Rick is also called upon for certain security purposes & assignments.
Furthermore, Rick Spangler (ordained pastor) and his wife are also in ministry and is a devoted family man rooted in faith in God.