Celebrating Shihan Craig: AYCC Instructor Honored with Prestigious International Award

• September 12, 2025
• Latest News · News

We are thrilled to share some incredible news from our AYCC family – Shihan Craig Sargent, head instructor of Club Naha Karate-Do USA, has been recognized on the international stage with one of the highest honors in martial arts!

Recently, Shihan Craig traveled to Texas to attend the G.O.A.T. (Greatest of all Time) Martial Arts Award Banquet where he received the prestigious G.O.A.T. Martial Arts Award and Ring. According to the Windsor Star, this is considered one of the most significant honors in the martial arts world – a recognition reserved for martial artists who demonstrate not only exceptional skill, but also a lifetime of dedication and community impact. Nominees are put forward by their peers and evaluated by a Grand Masters Council on their merit, legacy, and embodiment of Kaizen, the lifelong pursuit of growth and improvement.

More Than Three Decades of Dedication

Shihan Craig has been involved in the AYCC’s karate program since 1992. For more than 30 years, he has taught and mentored generations of students in Central Maine, sharing lessons in discipline, respect, perseverance, and community. His impact has gone far beyond the walls of the dojo – shaping the character and confidence of hundreds of youth and families.

• Red Belt Recognition:  In August, he was presented with his red belt by his instructor, Shihan Javier Diaz. In the Shudokan tradition, especially among affiliated dojos in Mexico, the red belt may be awarded at 7th Dan to honor a senior instructor’s deep commitment to preserving and passing on the art.
• Hall of Fame Nomination:  He was also officially nominated for induction into the AFKA Hall of Fame under the Lifetime of Honor Award category, which reflects the samurai tenet of Meiyo (Honor) and recognizes a lifetime dedicated to the practice, teaching, and preservation of Karate-Do.

A Humble Acceptance

Reflecting on these achievements, Shihan Craig shared:

“I am truly honored and grateful to receive this award. It represents not just my journey, but also the students, instructors, and community who inspire me every day. I will continue to live out the spirit of Kaizen in my training, teaching, and life.” 

Join Us in Celebrating

Please join us in congratulating Shihan Craig on these incredible accomplishments! We are so proud to have such a dedicated instructor leading our karate program and inspiring the next generation of martial artists right here in Central Maine.

Interested in learning more about our karate program or signing up for a class? Click here to explore opportunities with Shihan Craig and Club Naha Karate-Do.

Media

Press Release – Sept 12