Meet Michael

Meet Michael

Instructor

Michael brings a lifetime of American Mahjong experience and a deep appreciation for Chinese Mahjong and its rich traditions. His passion for the game shines through in every class, where he blends skill-building with the history, culture, and strategy that make the roots of mahjong so special. Michael is excited to introduce more people to the beauty and depth of Asian Mahjong formats at Heron House!

  • Family members and/or pets: Husband Craig 

  • Education/background: Michael is an engineering leader in the identity and access management space. He has a B.S. in Computer Science & Electrical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in NY.

  • Michael has fond memories of playing mahjong as he was growing up and loves the new community of friends it’s brought him here in Charlotte.

  • Charleston strategy in one sentence: Listen to the tiles. They do speak, even if it’s in a language you don’t understand.

  • Favorite tile set: Hard question… But it’s got to be the new Destination NYC set in melamine from My Fair Mahjong. Michael is a native New Yorker after all.

  • Favorite Heron House memory: The first time I walked in the door. I wasn’t really sure what to expect, but was just blown away. It still feels great and is set up perfectly.

  • Most competitive (1–10): I’ll match what the table vibe is. I love playing with people of all skill levels and flex accordingly.

  • Favorite mahjong lesson that is actually a life lesson? Adapt to what’s put in front of you and don’t lock yourself in.

  • My happy place? Give me a cabin in the woods, no technology, no internet, no cell service, a good book and a roaring fire. Maybe some company, maybe not.

  • Why Heron House Mahjong: It’s very welcoming, warm, and you don’t have to carry around 20lbs of gear with you to play. But most importantly, the people. Everyone is wonderful and every moment has been enjoyable.

 

Heron House has been blessed with the support of the local media and the broader mahjong community. Thank you as we hope to grow and bring the gift of mahjong to more and more people. Please find below links to some recent articles that highlight our boutique + studio.

Media inquiries can be directed to Team@Hhmahjong.com.