TONY Ezenwaka, chairman, Anambra State Wrestling Association, has described three medallists, who won the laurels foe Anambra at Nyeson Wike African Wrestling Championship as “worthy Ambassadors of Anambra.’’

The Anambra State team, returned from the competition in Port Harcourt with two gold and silver medals.

They are Ifeoma Nwoye, 55kg (gold), Emeka Nwafor, 70kg (gold) and Kenechukwu Nnaemeka, U-15 (silver).

Receiving the team at his office in Awka, Ezenwaka, who is permanent secretary in the office of the Head of Service, said he was delighted that they returned with medals, notwithstanding challenges they faced over poor funding.

“I feel delighted that our team conquered nationally, which has indeed qualified them to participate in the upcoming Commonwealth Games and other international championships.

“There is need for government to continue to invest in our wrestlers because it is obvious that we have the right coaching and the potential to reach the top,’’ the permanent secretary, Establishments Pensions and Management Services, said.

He listed some of their needs of the sports of wrestling to include wrestling mats, funding for healthcare and camping allowances.

Jude Nwankwo, the vice-chairman of the association, expressed delight at what was achieved by the team, even with little support.

He noted that there was need for government and individuals to rally support to the association, so that they could participate in more championships.

Justina Okoli, secretary of the association, hailed the chairman for his financial support that enabled them to attend the championships in Port Harcourt.

“We also need hostel accommodation, where we will camp our potential wrestlers, ahead of National and International competitions.”

Usman Aliyu, head coach of the team, observed: “but for the intervention of the association through the chairman, they could not have been celebrating this success.’’

– Mar. 7, 2018 @ 12:29 GMT |