The Original Zen Goju Temple was founded in Brooklyn, New York on October 9, 1972 by Sensei (teacher) Carl Ferraci, Sensei “Butch” Dellnegro,  Sensei  John Bruno, & Sensei Mauriello, where it still exists today. They were students of Grand Master Peter Urban, the founder of U.S.A. Goju. One of their first students was Vincent Merenda, who went on to become the head instructor of the Zen Goju Temple. His title is Shihan (master Instructor). Shihan Merenda awarded Rocco Abbatemarco his Black Belt in 1988 - at the time he was the youngest person in ZGT to earn a Black Belt (17). 

After earning his Black Belt, Rocco successfully competed in martial arts tournaments, kickboxing, & boxing matches, as well as teaching classes at the ZGT.  Through all the victories, defeats, medals, trophies, and the ups and downs of competition, Rocco has come to realize that teaching others is his calling. 

Last year (August 2020) he decided to open his own dojo in Durham, Maine. He teaches the art of U.S.A Goju. Our Kumite (sparring) incorporates much of Rocco’s knowledge of kickboxing & boxing.