Federation marks 37th anniversary
Vassallo makes it nine in a row
The Malta Amateur Wrestling Federation (MAWF) recently marked the 37th anniversary since its foundation in 1969 with a social gathering. Those who distinguished themselves during the 2005/06 season were presented with medals and trophies for their feats.
Stella Maris could well be called the team of the year since they won the National Championship for clubs and the British Airways Youth League 2005-2006.
The Stella Maris clan made it a hat-trick of honours following Aidan Buhagiar's winning of the Youth Wrestler of the Year award which is sponsored by the Ghaqda Kittieba Sport. This young wrestler had a remarkable season with good results particularly at the 2006 Commonwealth Youth Championships in Glasgow, Scotland.
Abraham Vassallo was named Wrestler of the Year for the ninth consecutive year. Last September, Vassallo won his weight category's gold medal in the Grand Prix Sicilia, held in Palermo.
He achieved his success after remaining undefeated against Polish, Romanian and Italian opponents. A few weeks later he placed first in the International Friendship Tournament organised by the University of Malta.
Federation president Simon A. Bonello addressed those present and congratulated wrestlers for their awards. He said the federation was investing in youths with the aim that in four years' time they could have a team good enough to represent Malta in top international competitions.
He concluded by saying that Maltese Olympic Style Wrestling was and will be a clean sport, free of drugs.
"There will never be a place for any substance that could cheat or cause damage to the health of the wrestlers," he said.