"This academy has been incredible for our son. His focus and confidence have improved so much. We’re truly grateful."
Kelly Murray
Deer Park
Trusted by Deer Park families
Deer Park, NY · Makoto Martial Arts
Strength.Focus.Confidence.
Deer Park's family dojo since 2001. Helping kids stand tall, sharpen focus, and grow into the leaders they were meant to be — one class at a time.
25+Years In Deer Park
4.8Star Rated
FamilyOwned & Operated
ShihanJerry Minerva
01 / Why Deer Park families choose Makoto
More Than Kicks.
Life Skills.
Parents don't bring their kids here just for martial arts. They come because they want a child who listens the first time, stands up for themselves, and walks into any room with confidence. That's what 25 years in Deer Park has built — and what we deliver every class.
Laser Focus
Sharper concentration in school
Real Confidence
Quiet strength, not bravado
Respect & Discipline
Better behavior at home
Strong & Healthy
Active, fit, and energized
02 / Our Classes
Find Your
Perfect Fit.
01
Confidence For Tiny Warriors
Little Dragons · Ages 3–5
Play-based classes that build focus, coordination, and kindergarten-ready confidence.
Learn More
⭐ Most Popular02
Discipline, Focus & Real Self-Defense
Kids Martial Arts · Ages 6–12
Fun, focused, high-energy classes that build confidence on and off the mat.
Learn More
03
Get Fit. Get Confident.
Adult Martial Arts · Teens & Adults
A full-body workout with real self-defense skills. Beginners welcome, no experience needed.
Learn More03 / What sets us apart
Not Your Typical
Jiu-Jitsu School.
Every Class Ends With A Win
Kids leave each class feeling proud and accomplished — momentum that compounds week after week.
Recognition Earned, Not Handed Out
Belts and stripes mean something here. Every promotion is earned through real effort and skill.
Coaching, Not Yelling
We mentor — never drill-sergeant. Every kid is encouraged, never intimidated.
Structure That Sticks
Kids learn to listen, focus, and follow through. Parents see it at homework time.
04 / Your Head Instructor
Shihan Jerry
Minerva.
Makoto means sincerity. For 39 years Shihan Jerry Minerva has taught it the same way: no shortcuts, no cookie-cutter belts. A 5th degree black belt in Goshin Jiu-Jitsu who cross-trained in Judo, BJJ, Jeet Kune Do, Small Circle Jiu-Jitsu and Arnis, he built a family-run dojo in Deer Park where every kid is known by name and every belt is earned.
"Strength. Focus. Confidence."
Read Our Story05 / Local families
Why Families
Love Us.
"I have noticed a clear rise in self confidence in my son, Will M. He looks forward to train with his Jiu Jitsu friends. The instructors are great and extremely patient. I recommend Makoto to anyone starting to train or an experienced MMA wanting to expand their knowledge of the sport."
Michael Montana
Deer Park
"Great atmosphere and great teachers! My son has made friends and has learned the value of discipline! Highly recommend!!!"
Mickaela Shimow
Deer Park
06 / Questions?
Honest
Answers.
The things Deer Park parents ask us every week. If we missed yours, just ask — we'll respond in minutes during business hours.
See All FAQsLittle Dragons welcomes ages 3–5, and Kids Martial Arts is built for ages 6–12. Not sure where they fit? Give us a call — we'll match them perfectly.
Ready To
Start?
Walk in this week. We'll take it from there.