Martial Arts
At Club “NAHA” Karate-Do, our goal is to inspire and enable our students through karate training to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring individuals. Club NAHA Karate-Do strengthens the spirit, mind, and body by providing a positive karate dojo environment that focuses on caring, confidence, honesty, leadership, respect, and responsibility. We offer capoeira, jujitsu, and karate classes with a variety of options for youth through adults, and lessons are offered in 7-week sessions.
Club “NAHA” Karate-Do is predominantly the style of Shudokan Karate, which is usually divided into three parts: kihon (basics), kata (forms or patterns of moves), and kumite (sparring). Techniques in kihon and kata are characterized by deep, long stances that provide stability, enable powerful movements, and strengthen the legs. Shudokan is regarded as a dynamic martial art as it develops anaerobic, powerful techniques as well as developing speed. Initially, strength and power are demonstrated instead of slower, more flowing motions. Those who progress to brown and black belt levels develop a much more fluid style that incorporates grappling and some jujitsu-like techniques, which can be found in the black belt kata. Kumite (fighting) techniques are practiced in the kihon and kata and developed from basic to advanced levels with an opponent.
VISIT the Official Club “NAHA” Karate-Do website or find us on Facebook.
Elm City Karate Challenge 2025
Get ready for an action-packed day at the Elm City Karate Challenge! This premier martial arts tournament brings together top competitors of all ages to showcase their skill, discipline, and sportsmanship. Don’t miss the excitement—whether you’re competing or cheering from the sidelines, join us for an unforgettable event!
Details
- Date: April 19, 2025
- Registration begins at 8:00 am
- Tournament begins at 9:00 am
- Rating: S.M.A.R.T.
- Tournament Fees:
- Pre-Registration: $55.00 covers all events
$30.00 for black belts that assist with judging during the event
(Deadline is April 18, 2025)
- Pre-Registration: $55.00 covers all events
- Registration $65.00 covers all events
$35.00 for black belts that assist with judging during the event - Spectator Fee: Free
(All spectators will need to fill out a guest sheet upon entering the AYCC)
Shihan Craig’s Recent Trip to Japan & Mexico
Late in 2024, Shihan Craig took a fantastic trip to Japan and Mexico to train and learn from other martial artists. Learn more about his journey, here.
Schedules & Information
Clinics & Seminars
Spar Wars
These monthly Sparring Sessions for current Club NAHA students are designed to help enhance sparring skills in a dynamic and supportive environment.
Details
- Second Wednesday of each month
- Aug 14, Sept 11, Oct 9, Nov 13, Jan 8, Feb 12, Mar 12, Apr 9, May 14, Jun 11, Jul 9
- 5:40-6:30 pm
- $10/session
- Students must bring their own sparring gear
Current Schedule Information
The Spring I session will run from March 3-April 19.
February 17 – registration opens for AYCC Members and currently enrolled students
February 24 – registration opens online
Other Information
- Gear:
- Students must change into their karate uniform prior to arriving for class and belt must be tied appropriately prior to entering the dojo.
- New students to class should wear a t-shirt and lightweight pants that allow for flexibility. Appropriate uniforms are required prior to the 3rd week of the session.
- Uniforms and other gear are purchased at the Welcome Center, and picked up with receipt with Shihan Craig Sargent.
- Viewing Area Access: Spectators may sit or stand in the viewing room to watch class, but should not interrupt instruction.
Private Lessons with Shihan Craig
Experience personalized training with our private martial arts lessons. Tailored to your goals and skill level, these one-on-one sessions are perfect for mastering techniques, improving fitness, and building confidence at your own pace. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced practitioner, Shihan Craig will provide focused guidance to help you achieve your best. Take control of your martial arts journey—schedule your private lesson today!
Email Shihan to schedule.
Registration Options
The AYCC offers 2 simple ways to register for our 7-week sessions.
- In person with the Welcome Center.
- Online
Our Affordable Access Program is available on most martial arts programs.
Session Information
Find our full registration and session schedule and information on our Registration page.
Summer Camps
International Shudokan Camp
Train all week with Shihan Craig, PLUS Shihan Javier Diaz and Renshi Fernando Diaz from Club Naha Mexico! They will also have guest instructors from their dojo in Mexico – a fun filled, intense-training filled week!
Details:
-
- July 28-August 1
- 9:00 am-3:00 pm
- Fees
- $TBD.00/week per student
- $TBD.00/day per student
- Additional youth in the same home = $TBD.00/week per student
- For CURRENT Club “Naha” Karate-Do students
- Ages 8+
Pictured left to right: Shihan Javier Diaz, Sensei Kira Buker, and Shihan Craig Sargent
Vacation Camps
December, February & April Karate Vacation Camps
School vacation is almost here and Club “Naha” Karate-Do is excited for the return of the ever-popular, Vacation Karate Camp!
Details:
- Dates
- December 23, 27 & 30
- February 17-21, 2025
- April 21-25
- 9:00 am-3:00 pm
- Fees
- $165.00/week per student
- $45.00/day per student
- For CURRENT Club “Naha” Karate-Do students
- Ages 7-17
- Before & After Care is available in the After School Program
- Open 7:00 am-5:30 pm
- Separate registration is required.
- $5.00/day
- Register in person, by phone at 207-873-0684 or online
- Flyer
Shihan Craig Sargent
Head Karate Instructor
Shihan Craig Sargent holds the rank of Nanadan (7th degree black belt) in Shudokan Karate and the rank of Rokudan (6th degree black belt) in Hensan Ryu Karate. His martial arts journey began in 1992 at the Waterville Area Boys and Girls Club in Maine, where he learned they style of Hensan-Ryu from Shihan Ken Walsh. In 1999, he began training in Shudokan Karate under Shihan Javier Diaz. During this period, he also trained in Kickboxing under Sensei Bob Hartley and practiced Danzan Ryu Jujitsu under Sensei Rich Charlebois from 2009 to 2012. Shihan’s full bio can be found here.
207-873-0684 x200
Elm City Karate Challenge
Returns April 2025
Club Naha Karate-Do Presents the Elm City Karate Challenge held right here at the AYCC.
Martial Artists from around New England will compete in Kata, Point Sparring, Flag Sparring, and Weapons
Tournament Fees:
Pre-Registration by April
- $xx.00 per athlete
- $xx.00 for black belts who volunteer with judging during the event
Registration at the Door
- $xx.00
- $xx.00 for black belts who volunteer with judging during the event
