Michael started training in 1982 at the NB Ju-Jitsu Club under Nick DiNapoli (President and founder) in the style of Gen Lee Ju-Jitsu. After training for six years, he received his Instructor Certification in 1988 and subsequently began teaching at the NB Ju-Jitsu Club up until the founder’s retirement.

He then assisted Dominic DellaVolpe , whom opened a club in 1990 to continue teaching Nick DiNapoli's style of Gen Lee Ju-Jitsu. Michael tested and was awarded the Shodan (1st Degree Black belt) in 1992, Nidan (2nd Degree Black belt) in 1994 and Sandan (3rd Degree Black belt) in 1995. After teaching and offering assistance at other schools whom continued with the style of Gen Lee Ju-Jitsu, as well as promoting Gen Lee Ju-Jitsu via seminars and demonstrations. Nick DiNapoli awarded Michael the Godan (5th Degree Black belt) in 2000. In 2001, he began studying Muso Shinden Ryu Iaido (Japanese Swordsmanship) and was awarded his Shodan in 2004.

After Nick DiNapoli’s death, he took a hiatus from teaching until he was asked if he would help in the “Time and Talent” initiative at St Jude’s Church. This seemed like the ideal time to begin the Gen Lee Ju-Jitsu Club and get back to teaching. He continues to run the club to this day.