Sensei Doherty has been a student of Martial Arts for over 18 years.  He founded Croton Karate Dojo in August 2005 in order to share his knowledge, training, and passion for martial arts.

His chosen art, Goju-ryu, means "hard-soft style", and Sensei Doherty does teach both aspects of the art.  In addition to the hard hitting elements of karate, Sensei Doherty teaches his students how to simply deflect physical attacks, and how to use their own energy and breath to calm and prepare themselves.  He focuses on discipline and respect in his classes, as he guides his students to achieve the inner strength of martial artists, not only the physical strength of athletes.

In addition to Karate, Sensei Doherty has studied Kung Fu, and he uses his knowledge of the Chinese arts to inform his practice and teaching of Karate. 

Sensei Doherty rigorously teaches self-defense techniques to all his students.  Regardless of age or size, he wants every one of his students to have a knowledge and facility with the techniques they can use to defend themselves in real world situations.

Sensei Doherty is a 2005 Goodwill Games Gold Medalist, and in prior years he won several medals as a Karate Team USA member.  

Sensei Doherty is also an experienced certified personal trainer.  He uses his knowledge of body mechanics and recovery to help his clients overcome injuries and physical difficulties in order to achieve their goals.

Whether teaching martial arts or personal training, Sensei Doherty always helps his students identify and build upon their individual strengths. 

Ms. Eisinstein has been a practitioner of karate for over 20 years.  She received her Black Belt at Croton Karate in March 2011.  Prior to that, she received certification from Japan in Oyama Karate, and a Black Belt in Sabaki Karate.

She has also studied many diverse martial arts including:  Chinese arts, Wing Chun, Tai Chi, Filipino Sizat, Kazi, Jiu Jitsu, Israeli Krav Maga, and has a 3rd Dan Black Belt in Taekwondo.  As a competitor, she metaled in the US Grand Prix and AMAA Nationals.

Ms. Eisinstein seeks to inspire her students and focuses on building their confidence.  She encourages them to strive beyond their accomplishments and perceived limits.  

"Croton Karate fosters a great combination of authentic martial arts and practical self-defense training, while respecting each student's unique needs."

Harley achieved his black belt after 5 years of training at Croton Karate.
Though the push-ups were hard, he enjoyed the challenge, and is most proud of the knowledge, strength and self-control he has learned along the way.

Harley is a graduate of Croton Harmon High School and is currently studying art and animation at the Savana College of Art and Design.

"Croton Karate is a place to physically exert yourself and make yourself better.  Your advancement is based solely on your own commitment."

Brendan achieved his Junior Black Belt after 4 years of training at Croton Karate.  He now enjoys teaching alongside Sensei Doherty and is working towards his adult Black Belt, with his ultimate goal set at even higher degrees of mastery.

Brendan is also very active in sports, he enjoys playing tennis, baseball and soccer.

"Karate is good for all ages, you make friends and have fun."

Corey received his black belt after 5 years of training at Croton Karate.  He continues to push himself and loves learning new techniques and building on his current skills.  He plans to continue to study karate and maybe other martial arts through college and afterwards.

Corey also plays on the Varsity Tennis Team at Croton Harmon High School.

"Even though karate gets hard at times, by not giving up, you can accomplish anything."

Toby received his junior black belt in March, 2011 after 5 years of training at Croton Karate.

For Toby, the biggest challenge has been remembering and perfecting all the movements in his katas.  Along the way, studying kata has become one of Toby's favorite parts of his karate training!  He also loves to spar and exercise in the dojo with his friends.

Toby continues to challenge himself and aspires to share his knowledge of karate with others.

Toby is a busy 5th grader -- he also plays baseball on a travel team, football, basketball and guitar.

"Croton Karate is a very friendly environment!  I have a lot of fun training here."

Alexandra began training at Croton Karate in 2006.  She received her junior black belt in March, 2011.

Alex's main focus in karate was kata, at which she excelled.  She competed for Croton Karate at the national Krane Karate Championships in 2007.

For the Stephens' karate is a family affair.  Alex trained alongside her 2 younger brothers and both of her parents!  So far, Alex is the first Stephens with a black belt.

Alexandra is currently taking a break from karate to pursue her other passion, horseback riding.  She is also a competitive rider and has won many ribbons.