Team Abia emerged winners in the maiden edition of the Under-15 and Under-17 Southeast Wrestling Championship, with 2 gold, 1 silver and 2 bronze medals, at the Indoor Sports Gymnasium Multipurpose Hall, Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, yesterday.
The 3-day championship which was organized by the Veteran Wrestlers Association of Nigeria, VWAN in collaboration with the National Sports Commission, NSC, witnessed over 40 wrestlers from the five eastern states participating.
Anambra State placed second on the medals table with 2 gold, 1 silver and 2 bronze, just as Ebonyi comes in the third spot with 1 gold, 2 silver and 1 bronze, while Enugu and Imo are fourth and fifth respectively with 1 gold, 1 silver and 1 gold, 1 bronze.
Speaking to newsmen during the grande finale, Sponsor of the event, Morris Actual, who is also President of the VWAN, expressed delight on the level of participation and performance, hinted that the zone has the potential to produce another generation of superstars and champions.
The former Commonwealth and World Champion, called on the people in the helms of affairs and the relevant stakeholders on the significance of investing in the sport, while reassuring that the event would be a yearly affair.
Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, represented by the Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, Barrister Llyod Ike Ekweremadu, reaffirmed the present administration’s passion and vision for sports promotion and development in the state.
Also Speaking, NSC Southeast Zonal Coordinator, Benard Ezeama praised the sponsor for making the tournament a reality, reiterating that such an opportunity will spur the athletes to go the extra mile.
For the winners, 16-year-old Obioma GodsChild (Abia State) and Ugwu Sarah (Ebonyi State) thanked all their coaches that made an impact on them, saying that they will continue to work hard to get better.
Meanwhile, prize money, medals and certificates were presented to outstanding wrestlers just as there were consolation prizes for other participants
Dignitaries present at the event include ex internationals, members of staff of the NSC, as well as Directors of Sports and Coaches from the five states.
