multiple 1st-place championships in weapons, fighting, and forms competition, but was unable to attend any competitive circuit due to finances. He focused instead on training up the next generation.
At fifteen he was in charge of a martial arts school of twenty Chinese kids at the Tallahassee Chinese School; this initial interest in sharing his experience would grow into an undying love for teaching. In 1992 he graduated 3rd in his class, attended FSU, and, at twenty-one, married Allison Carrozza. Shortly after, he moved to Philadelphia to open his own martial arts studio, Life Arts Karate Concepts, and enter graduate school at Temple University. After a year of course work Sensei Michael transferred to Arcadia University where he earned his M.Ed. in 1999 and his Secondary School Teacher Certification. The martial arts, however, remained an undeniable passion.
In the Fall of 1997, he was honored as a guest instructor at the Northwest Training Camp in Seattle, Washington, and in June of 1999 he flew to San Diego, CA for advanced training and to test for his 2nd Degree Black Belt, which he received on June 26, 1999. With the birth of their daughter Rachel in 2001, he and his wife returned to Florida where he earned his 3rd Degree Black Belt in 2006. Most recently, Sensei Michael attended the 2006 CNOMAA International Training Camp, where he taught Advanced Kicking: Spinning, Jumping, Flying. He now resides in Lake Mary with his family, Allison, Rachel, and their new son, Brandon.
In Sensei Michael’s Words:
“As a young kid, raised by a single parent, I know the struggles faced by the children of divorce. I know what is lacking and what is needed. Also, as an educator, I have seen firsthand what happens to kids who have found no role model, have lost their self-esteem, have no outlet for frustration, and have no passion to live for. I discovered the martial arts at age thirteen, and have considered it to be my second father. Hero Academy is that father to many today. Through dedication to the improvement of self and others, we have witnessed personal successes as well as community successes. Students have become leaders among their peers where they were once shy and withdrawn. Martial arts is the environment through which the body is strengthened, the passions of artistry and creativity are emboldened, and the heart is girded with compassion and love. Students care about one another and they earnestly desire each other's success. These are all products that evolve from the thoughtful structure, curriculum, students and instructors at Hero Academy. “
