CASTINE, Maine — Maine Maritime Academy announced Monday that Khalil Shakur has been named head men's wrestling coach.

"I'm very excited to be taking the head coaching position at Maine Maritime Academy," Shakur said. "I plan to bring a systematic and disciplined approach to the team's dynamic. I'm coming to build a dynasty."

Shakur, a 2025 graduate of Life University with a bachelor's degree in psychology, wrestled for the Running Eagles.

Prior to joining Maine Maritime, Shakur worked as a personal trainer with Morris Fitness from 2016-24, also serving as the lead wrestling and development coach during that time. Since 2020, he has been head coach and program manager for Club Lucha, and he began working as an elite personal trainer with Crunch Fitness in March 2025.

"Mariners Athletics is very proud to welcome coach Khalil Shakur to Maine Maritime Academy as our head men's wrestling coach," Director of Athletics Bill Mottola said. "In coach Shakur we found a leader who not only loves the sport, but lives the sport. A long history of training wrestlers of all levels to high achievements is a cornerstone of what coach Shakur brings to Mariners wrestling. His high energy approach paired with his extensive wrestling knowledge makes coach a great fit here at MMA. We eagerly await coach Shakur and his family's arrival on campus. Maine Maritime Athletics just got better!"

Shakur brings a wealth of wrestling and training experience to Castine. He has directed training for the USA National Team (ages 4-18) and specializes in technical wrestling skills, strength and conditioning, and speed and agility training.