Family-owned · Deer Park, New York
Makoto
Jiu Jitsu Centers.
A dojo built on sincerity. Led by Shihan Jerry Minerva. Shared by families who make it their own.
39+
Years in martial arts
5th Degree
Goshin Jiu-Jitsu black belt
Family-Run
Right here in Deer Park
4.8
103 Google reviews
Meet your Shihan
Shihan Jerry
Minerva.
5th Degree Black Belt, Goshin Jiu-Jitsu
Over 39 years in martial arts. A fifth-degree black belt. But ask a parent what they remember about Jerry, and it may be something much simpler: he knew their child's name when they walked through the door.
At Makoto, his foundation is Goshin Jiu-Jitsu, with training across Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Small Circle Jiu-Jitsu, Jeet Kune Do, Arnis and Muay Thai. That breadth brings striking, throws, joint control and practical self-defense into the same conversation.
The purpose is bigger than collecting techniques. Jerry's teaching centers on respect, discipline and self-esteem: learning to handle a challenge on the mat, then carrying that experience into school, work and everyday life.
This is a family-owned dojo, not an anonymous workout. Children, teenagers and adults train here with instructors and classmates who become part of their story.
The meaning behind the name
Makoto means
sincerity.
The character 真 on our logo is not just decoration. Sincerity is the standard: show up honestly, put in the work, treat your training partner with respect. A belt is something to work toward, not something to rush past.
Sincerity. Courage. Honor. That is the spirit we bring to the blue mats.
Inside our dojo
Real people.
Room to grow.
Known by name
Parents repeatedly mention instructors learning their children's names. That personal connection matters, especially when a child is taking their first nervous steps onto the mat.
An art, not a shortcut
Goshin Jiu-Jitsu is our foundation. Students practice technique, control and respect for their partners as they work toward the next stage of their training.
A place to keep growing
From a preschooler's first bow to an adult's next belt, progress looks different for every student. What stays the same is the opportunity to show up and keep learning.
In our families' words
The welcome.
The difference.
“My son just had his first class today and let me just say that we will definitely be returning. All of the instructors were so great with the kids. Jerry Minerva was VERY welcoming as soon as we walked in the door. I loved how he knew my sons name and treated him so nice. I had all of my questions answered and he responds very fast when you reach out to him. I would definitely recommend this place to anybody.”
“Amazing center. Our daughter feels confident and welcome here. She is learning tools and skills that give us peace of mind in the unfortunate event that she ever needs to defend herself. Shihan Jerry Minerva goes above and beyond and genuinely cares for the children’s well-being. Our family is so very thankful to the entire team.”
“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.”
Your first chapter
Find your place
on the mat.
$14 for 14 days of classes, with a free Makoto T-shirt. Meet the instructors. Try the training. See how it feels to be part of the dojo.
30-day money-back guarantee.
770-16 Grand Blvd, Deer Park, NY 11729
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