"This academy has been incredible for our son. His focus and confidence have improved so much. We’re truly grateful."
Kelly Murray
Deer Park
Makoto Jiu Jitsu Centers · Deer Park, NY
Sincerity. Courage.
Honor.
A family-run Deer Park dojo led by Shihan Jerry Minerva. Real jiu-jitsu, personal attention, and a place to grow at every age.
14 days of classes · Free Makoto T-shirt
30-day money-back guarantee · Beginners welcome
39+Years In Martial Arts
4.8103 Google Reviews
FamilyOwned & Operated
5th DegreeGoshin Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt
01 / The Makoto dojo in Deer Park
Known By Name.
Welcomed From Day One.
A first class for your child. A fresh challenge for yourself. A place to keep growing. Little Samurai, Mighty Samurai, and Teens & Adults each have their own age group and pace—with the same personal attention from Jerry and his team.
Students and parents describe a welcoming dojo, caring instructors, and training they look forward to returning to.
Meet Jerry & The Team4.8/5 · 103 Google reviews
“Makoto Jiu Jitsu is a great place to learn self defense. I have been training in the teen/adult class for almost three years now and I’ve never been more happy and confident before.”
Jason Dorsey · Google review excerpt · 2019-12-03
Age-Specific Classes
Children, teens, and adults
Real Self-Defense
Goshin Jiu-Jitsu training
Personal Attention
Instruction from Jerry and his team
Beginners Welcome
A place to start—and keep growing
02 / Our Classes
Find Your
Perfect Fit.
01
Confidence For Tiny Warriors
Little Samurai · Ages 3½–6
Play-based classes that build focus, coordination, and kindergarten-ready confidence.
Learn More
02
Discipline, Focus & Real Self-Defense
Mighty Samurai · Ages 7–13
Fun, focused, high-energy classes that build confidence on and off the mat.
Learn More
03
Get Fit. Get Confident.
Teens & Adults · Ages 14+
A full-body workout with real self-defense skills. Beginners welcome, no experience needed.
Learn More03 / What sets us apart
No Cookie-Cutter Belts.
Every Stripe Is Earned.
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.
"Sincerity. Courage. Honor."
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, call us and talk through what you need.
See All FAQsLittle Samurai welcomes ages 3½–6, and Mighty Samurai is built for ages 7–13. Not sure where they fit? Give us a call — we'll match them perfectly.
Ready To
Start?
Choose your program, meet the instructors, and see whether the dojo feels right for you.