Our Instructors
Jaroslav “Yoda” Botka
I was drawn to martial arts out of necessity. My family often moved and I was regularly bullied and assaulted physically. As my regular martial arts practice allowed me to become stronger mentally and physically I started to look for ways to serve others.
My first experience with Jiu Jitsu was in New Zealand under professor Douglas Santos in early 2009. Professor Santos awarded me the rank of Blue Belt before I moved to the United States in mid 2010.
As luck would have it I found a small group of very technical Jiu Jitsu fighters under the tutelage of my immediate instructor Pat Madden out of “Relson Gracie Jiu Jitsu Titusville” and was able to continue training there for the next 12 years.
During this time I was able to experience Jiu Jitsu in a different context as it was the basis for Modern Army Combatives Program. I had the pleasure to complete my Level 1. Combatives qualification as an Infatryman in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard. While in the military I already knew that my destiny is to teach Jiu Jitsu on a daily basis to my community. So I used this opportunity to teach and mentor my soldiers as much as I was able to.
Today as a civilian my mission of service continues. It is my vision to watch my community grow safer, stronger and healthier through the regular practice of Jiu Jitsu.
Robby McCollum
Assistant Instructor – Good Karma Jiu-Jitsu
Robby has been training in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu for over 8 years. His journey began at Relson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in Titusville, PA, where he trained alongside Yoda and Jim under Professor Pat Madden and Grandmaster Relson Gracie.
The bonds formed on the mat were first forged in service—Robby and Yoda met while serving in B-Co, 1-112 IN (Pennsylvania Army National Guard).
Robby brings a spirit of discipline, loyalty, and quiet professionalism to the academy. His approach to Jiu-Jitsu is rooted in purpose: he trains to be an asset to his family and community, striving every day to be a better father, husband, and man. That same dedication fuels his teaching, as he shares his knowledge with students at Good Karma Jiu-Jitsu, helping others grow in skill and character.
Fun Fact: Before life on the mats, Robby was the front man in a metal band—bringing the same energy and intensity to the stage that he now channels into his training and instruction.
.