Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
What age can my child start karate?
Club Naha Karate-Do USA offers martial arts programs for children as young as age 4. Our Lil’ Dragons program is designed for young students ages 4–7 and focuses on developing coordination, listening skills, confidence, respect, and basic martial arts movements in a fun and positive environment.
Our Youth Karate program is designed for students ages 6 and older and teaches traditional karate fundamentals, self-defense, kata, sparring skills, and important life skills such as discipline, perseverance, and responsibility.
What age can students start Jiu-Jitsu?
Jiu-Jitsu classes are available for youth, teens, and adults. Students learn practical grappling skills, self-defense, body awareness, and problem-solving through technique-based training.
Do I need any martial arts experience to join?
No. Beginners are always welcome at Club Naha Karate-Do USA. Our instructors have years of experience helping new students learn the fundamentals of martial arts in a safe and supportive environment.
Students begin by learning basic movements, stances, strikes, blocks, and self-defense techniques while developing confidence and discipline.
Can I join karate or Jiu-Jitsu at any time?
Yes. New students are welcome to join during open registration periods as space allows. Club Naha Karate-Do USA offers classes throughout the year through the Alfond Youth & Community Center’s session schedule.
Can I try a class before registering?
Yes. We encourage prospective students and families to experience a class and see if Club Naha Karate-Do USA is the right fit for them.
Classes & Schedule
How often should my child attend class?
We recommend students attend consistently each week. Regular attendance helps students develop skills, build confidence, and make steady progress through the curriculum.
Many students attend one or two classes per week, while others choose additional training opportunities such as tournament team, camps, or special events.
What happens if we miss a class?
We understand that families have busy schedules. If a student misses a class, they can continue with their next scheduled class and instructors will help them catch up.
How long are classes?
Class lengths vary depending on the program and age group. Most classes are designed to provide a balance of warm-up, skill development, practice, and application.
Cost & Registration
How much does karate cost?
Club Naha Karate-Do USA offers affordable martial arts programs through the Alfond Youth & Community Center.
Current session pricing:
Prices vary depending on class and membership status
Please contact the AYCC Welcome Center or visit the registration page for current program availability.
Do I need to be an AYCC member?
No. Both AYCC members and non-members are welcome to participate in Club Naha Karate-Do USA programs.
AYCC membership does provide additional benefits throughout the facility.
Are uniforms required?
Yes. Students wear a traditional karate uniform (gi) during classes. New students may begin training in comfortable athletic clothing and purchase a uniform after starting.
What equipment will my child need?
Beginners do not need equipment to start. As students progress, they may need items such as:
Instructors will guide families on when equipment is needed.
Karate Program
What style of karate do you teach?
Club Naha Karate-Do USA primarily teaches Shudokan Karate-Do, a traditional Okinawan-based martial art emphasizing:
Our training focuses on developing the mind, body, and spirit.
What will my child learn in karate?
Students learn much more than martial arts techniques. Through karate training, students develop:
How long does it take to earn a black belt?
The journey to black belt requires dedication, consistent training, and personal growth. Every student progresses at their own pace based on attendance, effort, skill development, and understanding of the martial arts. Generally it takes about five to six years minimum.
A black belt is not just about learning techniques—it represents commitment, perseverance, and personal development.
Is sparring required?
Students are introduced to sparring gradually and safely as they develop the necessary skills and maturity. Sparring is taught in a controlled environment with an emphasis on safety, respect, and proper technique.
Do students have to compete?
No. Tournament participation is optional.
Students may train for:
For students interested in competition, Club Naha offers tournament opportunities and a Tournament Team.
Jiu-Jitsu Program
What is Jiu-Jitsu?
Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art focused on grappling, leverage, control, and self-defense. Unlike striking-based martial arts, Jiu-Jitsu teaches students how to control situations through throws, escapes, pins, and submissions.
Is Jiu-Jitsu safe?
Yes. Safety is always the priority. Students learn proper techniques, respect for training partners, and controlled practice under instructor supervision.
Can my child do both karate and Jiu-Jitsu?
Absolutely. Karate and Jiu-Jitsu complement each other very well. Together, they can provide a well-rounded martial arts education.
Parents & Families
Can parents watch classes?
Yes. Parents and family members are welcome to observe classes from the designated viewing areas at the AYCC.
What if my child is shy or lacks confidence?
Many students begin martial arts feeling nervous or unsure. Our instructors work with students to help them build confidence, develop skills, and feel successful.
Will karate help my child with discipline?
Yes. Discipline is one of the core values taught at Club Naha Karate-Do USA. Students learn how to listen, set goals, overcome challenges, and take responsibility for their actions.
Is martial arts good for children who are not athletic?
Absolutely. Martial arts is for everyone. Students develop physical skills gradually while improving coordination, balance, flexibility, strength, and confidence.
About Club Naha Karate-Do USA
Who is the head instructor of the Club Naha Karate-Do?
Shihan Craig Sargent is the Head Instructor of Club Naha Karate-Do USA at the Alfond Youth & Community Center in Waterville, Maine. He has been teaching martial arts for more than 30 years and has dedicated his life to helping students build confidence, discipline, respect, leadership, and practical self-defense skills through traditional martial arts.
Shihan Craig began his martial arts journey in 1992 at the Waterville Area Boys & Girls Club under Shihan Ken Walsh. In 1999, he began training in Shudokan Karate under Shihan Javier Diaz, founder of Club Naha Karate-Do. Over the years, he has also studied kickboxing, boxing, and Danzan Ryu Jujitsu, giving him a well-rounded martial arts background.
Today, Shihan Craig holds the rank of Nanadan (7th Degree Black Belt) in Shudokan Karate and Rokudan (6th Degree Black Belt) in Hensan Ryu Karate. He is a full member of the Shudokan Martial Arts Association, a member of the International Shudokan Research Society, the Peaceful Warrior Black Belt Club, and the Toyama Kai. He also served as the President of the USA for the World Karate Society (WKS) and is the Director of the SMART Tournament Circuit in Maine.
Committed to continual learning, Shihan Craig regularly travels to train with highly respected instructors around the world. His training has taken him to Japan, Mexico, and California, where he has studied traditional Shudokan Karate directly from senior masters and at the headquarters of Club Naha Karate-Do and Toyama Karate-Do. This ongoing education allows him to bring authentic, up-to-date instruction back to his students in Maine.
Under Shihan Craig's leadership, Club Naha Karate-Do USA has grown into more than just a martial arts school. The dojo emphasizes developing the mind, body, and spirit while fostering a welcoming, family-oriented environment. Students of all ages learn not only karate and jiu-jitsu techniques but also important life skills such as perseverance, responsibility, confidence, and respect. Because Club Naha Karate-Do is part of the AYCC, every student also supports the center's mission of strengthening the community and helping local families.
Whether your goal is self-defense, physical fitness, competition, or personal growth, Shihan Craig is passionate about helping every student reach their full potential—both on and off the dojo floor.
Do you offer day camps?
Yes. Club Naha Karate-Do USA offers karate camps throughout the year featuring:
How do I get started?
Getting started is easy:
We welcome beginners of all ages and look forward to helping you become part of the Club Naha Karate-Do USA family.
What age can my child start karate?
Club Naha Karate-Do USA offers martial arts programs for children as young as age 4. Our Lil’ Dragons program is designed for young students ages 4–7 and focuses on developing coordination, listening skills, confidence, respect, and basic martial arts movements in a fun and positive environment.
Our Youth Karate program is designed for students ages 6 and older and teaches traditional karate fundamentals, self-defense, kata, sparring skills, and important life skills such as discipline, perseverance, and responsibility.
What age can students start Jiu-Jitsu?
Jiu-Jitsu classes are available for youth, teens, and adults. Students learn practical grappling skills, self-defense, body awareness, and problem-solving through technique-based training.
Do I need any martial arts experience to join?
No. Beginners are always welcome at Club Naha Karate-Do USA. Our instructors have years of experience helping new students learn the fundamentals of martial arts in a safe and supportive environment.
Students begin by learning basic movements, stances, strikes, blocks, and self-defense techniques while developing confidence and discipline.
Can I join karate or Jiu-Jitsu at any time?
Yes. New students are welcome to join during open registration periods as space allows. Club Naha Karate-Do USA offers classes throughout the year through the Alfond Youth & Community Center’s session schedule.
Can I try a class before registering?
Yes. We encourage prospective students and families to experience a class and see if Club Naha Karate-Do USA is the right fit for them.
Classes & Schedule
How often should my child attend class?
We recommend students attend consistently each week. Regular attendance helps students develop skills, build confidence, and make steady progress through the curriculum.
Many students attend one or two classes per week, while others choose additional training opportunities such as tournament team, camps, or special events.
What happens if we miss a class?
We understand that families have busy schedules. If a student misses a class, they can continue with their next scheduled class and instructors will help them catch up.
How long are classes?
Class lengths vary depending on the program and age group. Most classes are designed to provide a balance of warm-up, skill development, practice, and application.
Cost & Registration
How much does karate cost?
Club Naha Karate-Do USA offers affordable martial arts programs through the Alfond Youth & Community Center.
Current session pricing:
Prices vary depending on class and membership status
Please contact the AYCC Welcome Center or visit the registration page for current program availability.
Do I need to be an AYCC member?
No. Both AYCC members and non-members are welcome to participate in Club Naha Karate-Do USA programs.
AYCC membership does provide additional benefits throughout the facility.
Are uniforms required?
Yes. Students wear a traditional karate uniform (gi) during classes. New students may begin training in comfortable athletic clothing and purchase a uniform after starting.
What equipment will my child need?
Beginners do not need equipment to start. As students progress, they may need items such as:
- Karate uniform
- Sparring gear for yellow belt students and higher
- Bo (staff) for advanced training
Instructors will guide families on when equipment is needed.
Karate Program
What style of karate do you teach?
Club Naha Karate-Do USA primarily teaches Shudokan Karate-Do, a traditional Okinawan-based martial art emphasizing:
- Kihon (basics)
- Kata (traditional forms)
- Kumite (sparring)
- Self-defense techniques
- Character development
Our training focuses on developing the mind, body, and spirit.
What will my child learn in karate?
Students learn much more than martial arts techniques. Through karate training, students develop:
- Self-confidence
- Discipline
- Respect
- Focus
- Perseverance
- Leadership skills
- Physical fitness
- Self-defense awareness
How long does it take to earn a black belt?
The journey to black belt requires dedication, consistent training, and personal growth. Every student progresses at their own pace based on attendance, effort, skill development, and understanding of the martial arts. Generally it takes about five to six years minimum.
A black belt is not just about learning techniques—it represents commitment, perseverance, and personal development.
Is sparring required?
Students are introduced to sparring gradually and safely as they develop the necessary skills and maturity. Sparring is taught in a controlled environment with an emphasis on safety, respect, and proper technique.
Do students have to compete?
No. Tournament participation is optional.
Students may train for:
- Self-defense
- Fitness
- Personal development
- Confidence
- Competition
For students interested in competition, Club Naha offers tournament opportunities and a Tournament Team.
Jiu-Jitsu Program
What is Jiu-Jitsu?
Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art focused on grappling, leverage, control, and self-defense. Unlike striking-based martial arts, Jiu-Jitsu teaches students how to control situations through throws, escapes, pins, and submissions.
Is Jiu-Jitsu safe?
Yes. Safety is always the priority. Students learn proper techniques, respect for training partners, and controlled practice under instructor supervision.
Can my child do both karate and Jiu-Jitsu?
Absolutely. Karate and Jiu-Jitsu complement each other very well. Together, they can provide a well-rounded martial arts education.
Parents & Families
Can parents watch classes?
Yes. Parents and family members are welcome to observe classes from the designated viewing areas at the AYCC.
What if my child is shy or lacks confidence?
Many students begin martial arts feeling nervous or unsure. Our instructors work with students to help them build confidence, develop skills, and feel successful.
Will karate help my child with discipline?
Yes. Discipline is one of the core values taught at Club Naha Karate-Do USA. Students learn how to listen, set goals, overcome challenges, and take responsibility for their actions.
Is martial arts good for children who are not athletic?
Absolutely. Martial arts is for everyone. Students develop physical skills gradually while improving coordination, balance, flexibility, strength, and confidence.
About Club Naha Karate-Do USA
Who is the head instructor of the Club Naha Karate-Do?
Shihan Craig Sargent is the Head Instructor of Club Naha Karate-Do USA at the Alfond Youth & Community Center in Waterville, Maine. He has been teaching martial arts for more than 30 years and has dedicated his life to helping students build confidence, discipline, respect, leadership, and practical self-defense skills through traditional martial arts.
Shihan Craig began his martial arts journey in 1992 at the Waterville Area Boys & Girls Club under Shihan Ken Walsh. In 1999, he began training in Shudokan Karate under Shihan Javier Diaz, founder of Club Naha Karate-Do. Over the years, he has also studied kickboxing, boxing, and Danzan Ryu Jujitsu, giving him a well-rounded martial arts background.
Today, Shihan Craig holds the rank of Nanadan (7th Degree Black Belt) in Shudokan Karate and Rokudan (6th Degree Black Belt) in Hensan Ryu Karate. He is a full member of the Shudokan Martial Arts Association, a member of the International Shudokan Research Society, the Peaceful Warrior Black Belt Club, and the Toyama Kai. He also served as the President of the USA for the World Karate Society (WKS) and is the Director of the SMART Tournament Circuit in Maine.
Committed to continual learning, Shihan Craig regularly travels to train with highly respected instructors around the world. His training has taken him to Japan, Mexico, and California, where he has studied traditional Shudokan Karate directly from senior masters and at the headquarters of Club Naha Karate-Do and Toyama Karate-Do. This ongoing education allows him to bring authentic, up-to-date instruction back to his students in Maine.
Under Shihan Craig's leadership, Club Naha Karate-Do USA has grown into more than just a martial arts school. The dojo emphasizes developing the mind, body, and spirit while fostering a welcoming, family-oriented environment. Students of all ages learn not only karate and jiu-jitsu techniques but also important life skills such as perseverance, responsibility, confidence, and respect. Because Club Naha Karate-Do is part of the AYCC, every student also supports the center's mission of strengthening the community and helping local families.
Whether your goal is self-defense, physical fitness, competition, or personal growth, Shihan Craig is passionate about helping every student reach their full potential—both on and off the dojo floor.
Do you offer day camps?
Yes. Club Naha Karate-Do USA offers karate camps throughout the year featuring:
- Karate training
- Self-defense
- Kata
- Sparring skills
- Games and activities
How do I get started?
Getting started is easy:
- Choose the program that fits your goals.
- Register through the Alfond Youth & Community Center.
- Visit either www.clubaycc.org or www,clubnahakaratedo.com
- Call 207-873-0684
- Visit our welcome center at the Alfond Youth and Community Center
- Attend your first class and begin your martial arts journey.
We welcome beginners of all ages and look forward to helping you become part of the Club Naha Karate-Do USA family.
