Never Settle Awards
Welcome to the third year (2024) of the Never Settle Awards. Nominations are in and voting has begun. You'll have the opportunity to read about the great things other martial artists are doing and then place your votes. Links for each of the awards are listed below with the nominees.
You can read the first-year announcement on the Martial Journal Website: here
Martial Arts Awards
Together with Martial Journal, whistlekick is proud to sponsor the Never Settle Awards. These awards are designed to recognize the martial artists who give back to their schools, their communities, and the martial arts world at large.
Voting Ends September 21, 2024!
Vote for Deserving Martial Artists for the Never Settle Awards!
whistlekick is proud to be the creator of the Never Settle Awards cosponsored with Martial Journal. Through things like this, we are helping to recognize martial artists around the globe. Ours isn't the only opinion that matters in the martial arts. The community is even more important and now it's the community's chance to decide which martial artists to recognize for each award. Voting is open and closes on September 21, 2024.
Emissary of the Arts Award
Highlighting those who have contributed to the arts and the community as well, making the world a better place. Ideal nominees would demonstrate the positive qualities of martial arts and martial artists in ways not directly tied to martial arts. Many martial arts schools use positive character traits as a benefit to be grown from continued training.
These nominees demonstrate these qualities routinely beyond the walls of their schools such that people know the nominee based on actions and deeds, not on martial arts rank, ability, or martial arts notoriety.
Emissary of the Arts Voting 2024
Cory Anderson
Cory Anderson exemplifies the spirit of the Emissary of the Arts Award through her unwavering patience and kindness. Her ability to make everyone feel seen and appreciated transcends her remarkable achievements in martial arts and extends into her role as a Paraeducator. Cory’s dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment highlights her commitment to the arts and education, making her a true ambassador of compassion and excellence. Her ability to connect with and support individuals of all ages has strengthened community bonds and promoted a culture of mutual respect and understanding. Her commitment to nurturing and uplifting others, both in martial arts and in her professional life, makes her a shining example of what this award stands for.
John English
John English exemplifies the Emissary of the Arts award because he doesn’t just talk about the meaning of the arts; he practices what he preaches. He is constantly volunteering his time and efforts within the community whether it is martial arts related, helping local charities, or ensuring all students are able to participate at his dojos regardless of financial or behavioral struggles. John also plays the thankless job of referee for many MMA promotions where he is known for upholding the rules and protecting all fighters, sometimes even from themselves. This respect and concern for fighters extends after their time in the ring has ended via his work for the Athletic Boxing Commission’s Retired Fighters Charity. This organization raises money for unforeseen medical costs that occur after a fighter has retired to ensure that they are taken care of.
Eric Gifford
Eric Gifford was a small town cop who took the chance to open a martial arts school when it was needed in the town of Tiverton, RI in 1991. No one was turned away, ever. He pushed for everyone to find a way forward now matter what was thrown at them, whether it was a punch, a bad situation or worse. He is the definition of perseverance. Even in his own life he has been through a lot, he shines as a model example of the Indomitable Spirit. Eric’s "never give up" attitude and ability to always find a way regardless of the obstacle or challenge is something that continues to stick with his students to this day, both in martial arts themselves and in the rest of life.
G. Anthony Joseph
G. Anthony Joseph draws on his experience with TCF the System and around the ring to help a variety of people progress along their individual martial arts journeys. While some may know him for the work he does with professional fighters, especially within the MMA community, he doesn’t just work with the fighters themselves, he works with their coaches to help them elevate their games as well. He is known for being a kind and generous soul in his work with families, teens, and children, especially in their explorations of TCF. He embodies what he teaches in his everyday life and uses the attention to detail that can be so critical in martial arts to make positive contributions elsewhere, including in his work developing fight choreography for film. G. Anthony also helps spread awareness and motivation in a positive manner using a variety of social media platforms.
Leon Rogers
Leon Rogers has had an amazingly strong career in the Martial Arts. He has worked tirelessly to help every martial artist in the industry succeed, feel seen and empowered. He truly sees the value in what martial artists do and works his hardest to make sure the world at large sees the positive impact of the Martial Arts. Leon advocates for martial artists at every turn and is willing to provide advice to others, including other instructors, without hesitation. He provides outreach to show people that the martial arts are a positive and uplifting pursuit and he will do everything he can to empower everyone around him to make the dream of more practitioners a reality.
Flashlight Award
People who make a difference in the arts - no matter rank. While quietly making an impact in their community, they demonstrate that actions speak louder than words in the most positive of ways.
A nomination for this award represents that the nominee's actions were noticed, were appreciated, and are worthy of recognition beyond a simple “Thank You.”
This is the person who needs to be nominated because they would never nominate themselves.
Haleigh Arnold-Black
Haleigh Arnold-Black is a strong, confident woman raised in the martial arts with a soft compassionate heart of a teacher, who truly loves and cares for people. Haleigh draws others into her martial arts family while she instructs alongside her immediate family. Proof of this can be heard during speeches by Black Belt candidates where they express how much she has affected them and helped them. She serves as both a mentor and a counselor to help students through not only the struggles in their martial arts journey but also other real struggles outside the dojo. She is also known for her strong character across many UTA member schools around the country.
Meagan Boulter
Meagan Boulter is always helping out at her martial arts school with any and everything that needs to be done. She organizes the events and fills out the information on behalf of the school. When the school moved locations, she was the one who searched for months on end for an affordable and sound location. Beyond just the school she helps the community through her art. She has done local, and recently worldwide, free portraits for the families of people who have unfortunately passed due to suicide. Her most recent endeavor is funding a monument for students who passed during their years in school called The Wall of Forever Students. To raise funds, she organized and ran a local online auction with items from local businesses and a cookie bake-off. She helps other students stay focused on the end goal rather than the short-term frustrations that come with training.
Noah Dever
Noah has consistently provided a supportive and welcoming environment in his dojo in his personality and care for each person as well as programs he leads. Noah dedicates a lot of time to being in the dojo, taking time other than when he is scheduled to teach to help his friends train for upcoming belt tests, taking days off his day job to bring martial arts to local schools as part of their PE program, or taking part of a snow day to watch a youth student’s form and give him feedback in preparation for an upcoming tournament. Noah takes his passions and brings them to the dojo in the form of a weekly D&D group of youth and teen students in order to help the dojo be a place not just for classes. The Karate International Community and the martial arts community at large is a better and more welcoming place with Noah’s enthusiasm and passion.
Jason Fitzsimmons
Jason is the most caring human and he exemplifies the tenets of TaeKwonDo in his everyday life. He brings joy to his classmates and works hard to make sure everyone is included. He puts in extra time and effort to teach students outside of regular classes with one of the school's patterns clubs where he helps students be better prepared for leveling up and by spearheading a D&D group that gives adult students an opportunity to get to know each other in a different setting. Jason is the spearhead of the TaeKwonDo K.I.C.K.S. “Extra Ki-Ups”, this is a way to celebrate the achievements of students young and old because he believes that celebrating achievements outside of class is a great way to encourage community in our school
G. Anthony Joseph
G. Anthony Joseph draws on his experience with TCF the System and around the ring to help a variety of people progress along their individual martial arts journeys. While some may know him for the work he does with professional fighters, especially within the MMA community, he doesn’t just work with the fighters themselves, he works with their coaches to help them elevate their games as well. He is known for being a kind and generous soul in his work with families, teens, and children, especially in their explorations of TCF. He embodies what he teaches in his everyday life and uses the attention to detail that can be so critical in martial arts to make positive contributions elsewhere, including in his work developing fight choreography for film. G. Anthony also helps spread awareness and motivation in a positive manner using a variety of social media platforms.
Open Door Award
This person operates a school that has created a culture where students would refer to it as home, family. Everyone is welcome and wants to be there - with each other, even though they are all different.
These schools make everyone feel welcome, regardless of what they bring to the table. Past training or not, all ages, physical capacity, and more. These schools accept everyone, and make sure that their first few months is only the beginning of the journey.
Lyne Arnold
Lyne Arnold is the glue that holds together the school where she and her husband teach. She has an amazing attitude and is welcoming to everyone who comes through the doors. It doesn’t matter whether they are current students, random strangers, or special guests. Everyone, young and older, feels welcome. Lyne also made an impact as a local school educator before joining her husband full-time at their martial arts school. She is known throughout the community as an educator there and continues to educate here in a different way.
Joe Costa
Joe Costa has run Karate International of Windham for over two decades and that community is a better place because of him. His dojo has served the local school systems with teacher breakfasts and sponsored physical education weeks for martial arts. His dojo does an excellent job of teaching high-quality, positive, and professional martial arts that focuses on real-life skills. Joe instructs martial arts physically but also coaches, mentors, and above all, has been a friend to those who know him best. He understands that teaching is a challenging profession and does all he can to help support the teachers in his community whenever possible.
Shannon Costa
Shannon Costa is the heart of the studio. She keeps things running, whether it's behind the scenes or on the mat. She is always available to take the time someone needs to get comfortable and plays a big part in making everyone feel like they belong. Whenever students start to feel that they won't be able to keep up or do what others are doing, she reminds them of what they are capable of. She knows how to change or modify curriculum to make moves effective for everyone regardless of gender, body type, or ability. Shannon reminds others around her that they are a community, and does so quietly, by taking pictures and creating amazing year-in-review posters. She makes the studio an inspiring and beautiful place to work and train with her inspirational artwork. She keeps things organized and creates outside side events that bring other schools together. She creates community by encouraging others, and by always cutting right to the heart of the matter.
Darryl Hinthorne
Darryl Hinthorne is open to everyone coming in the door and trying class. Once they step in the door, they can’t help but feel welcome. This makes it easier to appreciate his depth of knowledge and makes students want to learn more. He is patient and committed to passing on the martial arts that he loves to others. His enthusiasm has helped students to learn and thrive across multiple decades and helps to open up a world many of them would have never known if not for doing martial arts.
Meagan MacIntire
Meagan MacINtire is always willing to help with patterns or answer any questions. She hosts a pattern club at her house every week to help with whatever anyone needs extra help with free of charge. She has created charts to assist in learning the meanings of patterns and is willing to help whenever students are struggling. Meagan is always encouraging others to keep learning. Meagan always volunteers to help teach class if needed, she is also a positive role model as a Girl Scout Troop Leader. Through these roles, she inspires everyone around her to go the extra mile and be the best they can.
Eliot Prisby
Eliot takes great care in making Metrowest Kung Fu welcoming to all and is a social justice advocate in his community. He works to ensure fair treatment for those in his school, community, and personal life. Many consider him both a good friend and a welcome ally. Eliot’s character and actions have gained the respect and appreciation of fellow martial arts teachers through his commitment to the arts, his students, and his community. He is a positive presence and a strong role model.
Simon Scher
Simon provides a welcoming atmosphere to all that enter his school, whether it be the young kids just starting out or the older adults. He has welcomed Individuals into training that are less fortunate providing them a safe place to be themselves. He fosters the spirit of martial arts in individuals who may have a hard time learning and can effectively lead even the most challenging of students. Simon welcomes all, encourages all, and provides a safe and comfortable atmosphere for all levels of training. He lauds everyone's accomplishments, regardless of how big or small, and recognizes people for the effort they put forth.
Tsahi Shemesh
Tsahi Shemesh has been working hard to heal the Jewish community after a terrible series of attacks against the community. His studio has people of all races, religions, and ethnicities.Even though he has been blacklisted for his nationality, he still maintains an open studio. He is truly devoted to making the world a safer place, especially for those who need protection most. Tsahi has provided a space where people can regain their confidence after terrible violence and helps them empower their bodies and their minds. His students are able to walk the streets with their heads higher because they have the training to defend themselves.
Chhoeun Thy
Chhoeun Thy has always provided a safe, comforting school while holding the integrity of the art high. He provides training for all, no matter if they can afford it or not. He works with students to make it affordable for everyone. He provided free online training for anyone who wanted it during the pandemic season. He provides workout classes for individuals needing to focus on weight loss. He also has provided physically challenged classes. Chhoeun Thy is like a second father to many and he keeps an atmosphere of high values and standards while pushing everyone to find their best within themselves. He shows no partiality and holds integrity high as he shares his love of martial arts with those willing to learn.
Enduring Footprint Award
Ideal nominees would stand out for their lasting impact on the martial arts community across a significant period of time. While the extent of the impact may be a result of direct, in person interactions, impact resulting through social media and other internet activity is also worthy of consideration.
Martial artists would not only say that they know who the nominee is but will also be able to discuss how the nominee influenced their training in some way.
Enduring Footprint Voting 2024
Rick Arnold
Rick Arnold has been influencing and enriching the lives and martial arts journey of students and community members since 1984. He continues to play an active role in the education of his students which can be seen among families and across multiple generations of students. His leadership is felt in his school, his community, his home state of Texas, and across the United States of America, especially within the United Taekwondo Alliance. Rick has a giving, gentle heart, and collaborates with organizations such as the Salvation Army to provide assistance to those most in need, especially during the November/December holiday season. His actions serve as an example of how everyday living and martial arts all fit together into a well-rounded way of life.
Chad Bailey
Chad Bailey has been in the martial arts for over four decades. He goes anywhere and everywhere to share his experience in martial arts and his passion for healthy living. His focus is always finding the similarities in the arts rather than criticizing the differences. Those who meet him for the first time recognize his knowledge and skill are only matched by his kindness and desire to learn and teach. Using in-person instruction and distance instruction via Zoom, Chad strives to impact as many others as possible. This is especially true in the Arnis world where he follows in the footsteps of his own teacher, Remy Oresid.
Rudy Duncan
Rudy Duncan has had an amazing career in the martial arts and is known by and large for his skill, knowledge, and compassion. Over the years he has had the opportunity to teach and inspire multi-generations of people, among them countless instructors. Rudy works with anyone and everyone and seeks to help them find their way. Using his background in social work he creates a safe and welcoming environment for everyone who wants to better themselves. His warm and welcoming presence is second to none, and the work he does with outreach in the martial arts world and his own community is admirable.
Mr Andrew Evans
Andrew Evans has made lasting imprints in the martial arts world. He has pulled together countless schools and different styles of martial arts to work together and learn from one another. In this way, he has created a respectful community of learners and has built a more peaceful world to lift each other up. As a learner and lover of martial arts, he has explored different styles to gain a better understanding of martial arts as a whole which has given him the opportunity to positively influence the quality of instructors around him. He leads by example and doesn’t hesitate to share his knowledge as demonstrated by his current video project to document applications within the forms of Taekwon-Do. He holds integrity very high and continually engages with his community to assist those most in need of help.
Collin Lieberman
Collin Lieberman has left his mark in the martial arts and his community for many years. He is the first to bring whatever he can to the table. He understands the importance of continued education and training for their benefits which enhances everyone and anyone he comes in contact with. Collin’s knowledge and passion are contagious which allow him to have an immediate and lasting impact on those around him. His love for others is genuine and honest. Collin hosts numerous classes and seminars across many styles in both martial arts and fitness in an effort to help those around him and to extend to others as much as possible.
Ripples on Our Pond - In Memoriam
Every year, the martial arts community loses instructors, students, innovators, and family. We would like to recognize martial artists who left our families. Please take a moment to provide information here for people who have passed away between July 2023 and the present. Please know that a member of the team will reach out to you once you have submitted your Ripples on Our Pond nomination to make sure we have everything correct.
Ripples on Our Pond Nominations
Learn More
You can learn more about how we got here with this episode of Martial Arts Radio.