Gregory Melita

            When Greg Melita started his Isshin-ryu studies, he had already made his mark in sports, as a championship motocross rider. With several sponsors in his corner, this top student in high school, became a  well known rider, recognized throughout the circuit as a winner and tough competitor. In previous years, Greg’s father had been a student of Grand Master Ed McGrath, for several years, showing where his son gets his courage and competitive spirit. This young man, has impressed Master McGrath, not only as a tenacious fighter, but as a seeker of knowledge and a young gentleman, who any parent would be proud to call their son.

                                             By-Edward F. McGrath Ju-Dan, Isshin-ryu

        In my martial arts studies, I took up Isshin-ryu Karate in 1998 at the age of fourteen, and I continued with this art among others. I have reached the teaching grade in Isshin-ryu which is third degree black belt. In addition to competing in many tournaments, some achievements within this style are:

·        First place in Kumite at Al Smith’s Red Dragon PA State Championship tournament

·        Second place in Empty Hand Kata

·        Third place in Weapons

·        Inducted into the AOKA hall of fame in 2004 under “Adult Male Competitor Of the Year”

Other accomplishments 

-Rank of purple belt in the Kioto Brazilian Jiu Jitsu system
-NY State Champion (2006 Federation Tournament) - Blue Belt
-2x Silver medal NY State Championships - Blue Belt
-4th place No-Gi at Grappler's Quest US Nationals 2005
-4th place Open Weight at US OPEN 2006

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