Michael Livschitz has always been fascinated and drawn to martial arts. In 1995, he and his parents emigrated to America. And though he had a comfortable life, martial arts was a luxury. In his youth, he trained in Shotokan Karate and Kendo. Later in 2003, he met Shihan Gotay, who introduced him to Goju Karate while taking an introduction Karate class for physical education credit at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. At the end of the class, Sensei Gotay said to all his students, “If this is something you always wanted to do but couldn’t, due to financial or other reasons you can come and train here free of change.” This was a dream come true. Shortly after joining the Karate Club, Michael started assisting Sensei Gotay to teach Beginner Karate classes, and eventually instruct Sensei Gotay’s advanced students. Meanwhile, his studies also included Judo and Boxing. In 2012 Michael Livschitz was promoted to Shodan (1st degree Black belt). In 2015 to Nidan (2nd degree black belt). In 2018 to Sandon (3rd degree Black belt). In 2022 to Yandan (4th degree Black Belt) in Goju Karate. In 2018 he was also promoted to Shodan (1st degree Black belt). In 2022 to Nidan (2nd degree black belt) in Judo. Michael is a member of USJA (United States Judo Association) and USAJudo (IJF.) In 2019 Michael became a certified Judo coach and Local Judo Referee under USJA. Martial Arts has been a very important part of Michael’s life. He attributes who he is today to Martial Arts and appreciates the gift which Sensei Gotay has given him. He now wishes to pass that gift on and hopes that it can improve, and change the life of future students, as it did for him. He currently trains in and teaches Karate and Judo. He is an Adjunct Lecturer, teaching Karate and Self Defense at John Jay College of Criminal Justice.
