Honouring the best on the wrestling mat – (Gallery)

At a stunning function at the Pines at the beginning of July, SAWF hosted its annual awards function, where coaches, athletes and management were rewarded for excellence throughout the year.

July 15, 2018

Bruce Douglas 1 minute read

Peyton Letcher ties up Leanco Stans in one of the female matches.

The South African Wrestling Federation (SAWF) recently honoured its best.

At a stunning function at the Pines at the beginning of July, SAWF hosted its annual awards function, where coaches, athletes and management were rewarded for excellence throughout the year.

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Head coach of SAWF, Nico Coetzee went into more detail.

“This is the first year the awards were combined with the annual capping ceremony. Senior Proteas accept the creed and become recognised as seniors.”

The weekend’s activities had in fact kicked off a day earlier with the Cadet Junior and Senior Championships, hosted at the Durnacol Sports Complex.

This guided a decision to host the awards ceremony in Newcastle.

“KwaZulu-Natal hosted the championships so we gave the awards ceremony to the province.”

During the course of the evening, coaches, administrators and wrestlers received various awards, including international certification.

The capping was among one of the evening’s many highlights.

Martin Erasmus and Johannes Botha were also honoured for their successes at the 2018 Commonwealth Games (Gold Coast 2018) at City of Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia during April.

Erasmus earned gold, while Botha earned silver.

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Among the local wrestling contingent were Lizzy and Danie Botha, administrator and coach of the Newcastle Cougars Wrestling Club respectively.

Festivities went on well into the night.