Born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Richard “Rich” Arden Maye is a devoted Christian, husband, father, and lifelong martial artist whose dedication to personal growth and perseverance has defined his journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Rich began his martial arts path through traditional styles, but once introduced to Jiu-Jitsu, he was immediately drawn to its effectiveness in both self-defense and sport. Captivated by the art, he soon devoted himself entirely to mastering it.

His first formal experience came during a seminar that left a lasting impression. The depth, precision, and beauty of the techniques fascinated him, sparking a commitment that would shape decades of training. Early on, Rich would travel more than an hour each way to attend classes several times a week, later founding a local training club so he could immerse himself in practice daily.

The road to black belt was anything but easy. Rich endured multiple injuries that required surgeries and long rehabilitations — challenges that tested his perseverance and faith. Each time, however, he returned to the mats stronger and more determined than before, using adversity as fuel for improvement.

When Rich joined SHC BJJ, he was a purple belt who had stepped away from consistent training. Under the guidance and methodology of the SHC team, his Jiu-Jitsu was “born again.” The program’s holistic approach to health, technical growth, and mindset transformed his practice, allowing him to prevent injuries, refine his competition strategy, and reach new levels of performance. Through SHC BJJ, Rich rediscovered his love for the art and became part of a team he describes as “a true family” — one deeply committed to each other’s success both on and off the mats.

Among his most memorable experiences was serving as Professor Samuel’s training partner in preparation for competition — months filled with intense training sessions, technical exchanges, and shared moments of laughter that solidified a lasting bond.

For Rich, Jiu-Jitsu is far more than a martial art; it is a way of life. The discipline and commitment it demands have strengthened his confidence, deepened his relationships, and provided a lifelong outlet for his active and competitive spirit. The lessons he has learned on the mats continue to shape every aspect of his life.

Now, after decades of dedication, Rich achieved one of the greatest milestones in martial arts — earning his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt at age 45. He remains both a student and a mentor, continuing to pursue competition goals while dedicating himself to helping develop the next generation of practitioners. His mission is to honor the SHC BJJ lineage through continual improvement, teaching, and service — giving back to the art and team that gave him so much.

“The path to black belt is a marathon filled with highs and lows. Stay patient, stay focused, and embrace every challenge. If it were easy, it wouldn’t be so special.” — Rich Maye