Elkhart Martial Arts achieves historic AAU success at national tournaments

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 7, 2026, 11:01 PM

Last updated Aug 7, 2026

Summary

Elkhart Martial Arts recently competed in national tournaments held in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, sending 13 athletes who participated in a total of 58 events. The team won an impressive 29 gold medals, 18 silver medals, and nine bronze medals. Zachary Herban stood out with a perfect 7-7 record, earning seven national championships and Grand Champion honors, a title awarded to only 22 competitors out of over 3,000 this year. Coach Lorrin Smith praised the team's performances, highlighting the achievements of first-time competitors Lilly Kinzel and Aiden Pace. The team continues to build on its success with strong family participation in the competitions.

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By the Numbers
  • Elkhart Martial Arts won 29 gold medals at national tournaments.
  • Zachary Herban achieved seven championships and Grand Champion status.
  • First-time competitors Lilly Kinzel and Aiden Pace also excelled.
  • The team had strong family involvement, enhancing their competitive spirit.
  • Assistant coaches also secured medals and national team trial invitations.
Latest Updates
  • 11:01 PMYahoo SportsMartial arts team hits new heights of AAU success
What they're saying
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ELKHART — Elkhart Martial Arts went south to mine for AAU gold and brought back the biggest haul of the modern era. The competition team sent 13 athletes to two national tournaments, in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, competing in 58 individual events. As a team, they brought home 29 gold medal national championships, 18 silver medals, and nine bronze medals. While ...

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