AMERICAN AMATEUR SPORTS HALL OF FAME RISING STARS 2024

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 A Rising Star in Martial Arts and a Role Model for All

Region: Virginia, United States

Sport: Martial Arts

Caleb Aaron Chase Ragans is a remarkable young martial artist whose dedication, talent, and leadership have propelled him to great heights in the world of Taekwondo. With a drive for excellence and a heart for helping others, Caleb has established himself as a 2-time World Champion and an inspiration to his peers and community.

Achievements in Martial Arts
Over six years of dedication to the sport, Caleb has amassed an impressive list of accomplishments. As a competitor for Rutter’s Martial Arts, he has earned numerous 1st place awards in sparring, form/kata, and weapons. His most notable achievements include:

• 2x World Champion Belt Holder in Taekwondo
• In-School Tournament Underbelt Championship Belt Holder
• Student of the Year Award for two consecutive years
• Most Improved Student Award

Caleb’s success in martial arts is a testament to his hard work, discipline, and passion for the sport.

A Mentor and Leader
Beyond his competitive accolades, Caleb’s contributions to his martial arts community are equally impressive. As a leader of the Little Dragons Program, he goes above and beyond, arriving early to mentor younger students. Caleb provides guidance, critiques techniques, and serves as a role model for aspiring martial artists. His encouragement and support have made a lasting impact on his teammates and students alike.

Dedication to Service
Caleb’s commitment to his Dojo and community extends outside the ring. He actively participates in events, including parades, where he proudly represents his martial arts school. Caleb is always ready to lend a helping hand, whether it’s setting up for events or assisting on a small farm after school. His love for hard work and seeing its rewards is evident in every aspect of his life.

An Inspirational Journey
Caleb’s transformation from a young boy with little sportsmanship to a world-class martial artist and mentor is truly inspiring. His growth exemplifies the values of perseverance, humility, and service. Whether competing on the world stage or encouraging a beginner in class, Caleb embodies the spirit of martial arts.

Impact Beyond the Dojo
Caleb Aaron Chase Ragans is not just a 2-time World Champion; he is a shining example of how passion and dedication can lead to success and positively impact others. His journey in martial arts is far from over, and his future promises even greater achievements, both on and off the mat.

 A Rising Star in Shotokan Karate

Region: Virginia, United States

Sport: Martial Arts

Ezekiel Robert Pack is a prodigious talent in the world of Shotokan Karate. At just 12 years old, he has already achieved remarkable success, solidifying his reputation as one of the brightest young martial artists of his generation.

Seven Years of Dedication
Ezekiel began his journey in martial arts at the age of 5, immersing himself in the discipline and techniques of Shotokan Karate. His unwavering dedication, tireless work ethic, and passion for the sport have propelled him to the highest levels of competition.

A Triple National Champion
In 2024, Ezekiel reached an extraordinary milestone, earning the title of AMAA 3x National Champion in Forms, Weapons, and Sparring. This remarkable achievement highlights his versatility and mastery across multiple facets of martial arts, showcasing his technical skill, strategic mind, and competitive spirit.

A Bright Future Ahead
Ezekiel’s accomplishments are a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and the strong support of his coaches and family. His journey in Shotokan Karate is far from over, and his potential for future achievements is limitless. As he continues to grow and refine his skills, Ezekiel serves as an inspiration to young martial artists everywhere.

A Role Model for Aspiring Athletes
Beyond his impressive accolades, Ezekiel embodies the core values of martial arts, including discipline, respect, and humility. His commitment to excellence both on and off the mat has earned him the admiration of peers, coaches, and competitors alike.

Ezekiel Robert Pack is a name to watch in the martial arts community, and his dedication and accomplishments ensure a bright future filled with continued success.

  An Aspiring Martial Arts Champion and Community Role Model

Region: Virginia, United States

Sport: Martial Arts

Current Rank: Advanced Red Belt
Years Active in Martial Arts: 3.5 Years
Dojo: Scott Rutter’s Martial Arts (RMA)

Eddie Lewis Prillaman exemplifies dedication, perseverance, and excellence in martial arts and beyond. Starting his Taekwondo training at the age of 7 in June 2021, Eddie has become an integral part of the RMA Competition Team and a rising star in sport karate.

Achievements in Martial Arts
Eddie’s competitive journey began in March 2022, and since then, his trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable:

• August 10, 2024: Competed in the AMAA National Sport Karate Championships in Charlotte, NC, earning three national championships in Weapons, Forms, and Sparring. He also claimed the Jr. National Grand Championship.
• September 14, 2024: At the Davie County War Eagle Invitational in Mocksville, NC, Eddie earned his first Championship Ring and additional awards in every category entered.
• October 26, 2024: Dominated the Mid Eastern Karate Association – Alamance Open Championships with first-place finishes in Weapons, Forms, and Sparring, followed by winning the event’s Grand Championship.
• November 23, 2024: Debuted in Musical Weapons, securing first place in the category.

Eddie’s competitive prowess is matched by his commitment to his craft. As a devoted student, he assists Grand Master Rutter with ITF training and serves as a mentor and role model to his peers.

Notable Awards and Achievements Beyond Martial Arts
Eddie’s talents and achievements extend far beyond the dojo:

• Academic Excellence: A 5th grader at Christian Heritage Academy, Eddie is an “A” Honor Roll student who balances his studies with extracurricular activities.
• 4-H Leadership: As President of his local 4-H Club, Eddie demonstrates leadership and dedication to community service.
• Athletic Versatility: Participates on the school’s K.I.T. (Knights in Training) teams, excelling in running, basketball, and volleyball.
• Upward Basketball: A team player since kindergarten, showcasing his sportsmanship and athletic skills.
• 5K Running Achievement: Placed 2nd in his age group (12 and under) and 9th overall in a field of over 70 runners during his first 5K race in April 2024.
• Musical Talent: A skilled pianist since the age of 5, Eddie regularly performs at local churches and community events.

A Devoted Community Member
Eddie is a regular attendee of Daystar Ministries in Bassett, VA, where his strong values and commitment to faith are nurtured. He participates in events and activities that strengthen his community while inspiring those around him.

A Promising Future
Eddie’s accomplishments in martial arts, academics, and extracurricular activities are a testament to his hard work, focus, and determination. As he prepares to test for his Brown Belt, Eddie is on a path to even greater success in martial arts and life. His ability to balance excellence across various areas of his life makes him a role model for peers and younger students alike.

Eddie Lewis Prillaman is a shining example of the transformative power of discipline and dedication, both on and off the mat.

   A Resilient, Disciplined, Determined, Accomplished, Inspiring 

Region: Virginia, United States

Sport: Martial Arts

 Isaiah was born 18 years ago, weighing just over 2 pounds as a premature infant. Throughout his life, he has faced and overcome numerous challenges, including asthma and a difficult childhood, emerging as a determined and accomplished young man.

For the past three years, Isaiah has been dedicated to Shotokan karate, achieving the rank of Red belt. His ultimate goal is to continue his training and earn multiple degrees of Black belt. Isaiah’s karate discipline and skills have also significantly contributed to his success as a member of the JROTC program at Carroll County High School, where he has risen to the rank of Sergeant First Class. In JROTC, he has earned numerous ribbons and medals while excelling in Raiders, Drill, and Sharp Shooters.

A dedicated student, Isaiah has worked hard to maintain a 3.5 GPA while excelling in both academics and extracurricular activities. His efforts have been recognized through an impressive collection of awards and achievements.

Years Active in the Sport: 3
Teams/Clubs Represented: Rutter’s Martial Arts, led by Grand Master Scott Rutter
Notable Achievements and Awards:

• National Championships:
  • 1st place in Forms
  • 1st place in Sparring
  • 2nd place in Weapons
• Regional Championships:
  • 2 first-place finishes
  • 3 second-place finishes
  • 3 third-place finishes
• Local Competitions:
  • 3 first-place finishes
  • 6 second-place finishes

Isaiah’s determination, discipline, and perseverance have shaped him into an exceptional athlete and individual, with a bright future ahead in both Shotokan karate and life.