From 22-24 May, the Armenian MMA Federation hosted the first tournament since the Covid lockdown was lifted, with a youth National Championships for 12-13 and 14-15 age brackets at the Dynamo Arena, in Erevan, Armenia’s capital, with 84 young athletes taking part.
Armenian Federation President Garegin Aghabalyan was delighted with the enthusiasm of the young athletes and believes it shows the progress of the sport in his country.
“We’ve been working diligently,” said Mr Aghabalyan, “and as of late many coaches, many clubs have affiliated with Armenian MMA Federation. We explain, enlighten, hold presentations and discussions to help people understand that we need to bundle forces to boost MMA development, to send the best athletes to European and World Championships to represent Armenia with real chances to conquer medals.”
With the IMMAF World Youth Championships now being hosted in Bulgaria, which is easily accessible from Armenia, the federation is planning to participate. As for the National scene, the priority will be to organize one more Youth championships for 16-17 year-olds, followed by a National Championships for senior age groups.
The President continued: “MMA in Armenia is truly the most dynamically developing sport. I am overwhelmed when I see the sparks in the eyes of the young participants: I see the future in them.”
