Today, a delegation from the Ukrainian Women’s National Wrestling Team visited Trenton City Hall on the last leg of their international tour.
Organized by Trenton Youth Wrestling and Learning Center, the visit allowed the team to learn more about Trenton’s investment in wrestling and other youth sports, as well as raise awareness of the challenges facing Ukrainian citizens in their homeland. The Team and Mayor Gusciora also noted the near-identical colors of the Ukrainian and Trenton flags.
“The City of Trenton has a long history of athletic excellence, especially in sports such as basketball, football, and track. We are committed to growing the sport of wrestling in Trenton. Wrestling is an inclusive sport for all. Athletes from a variety of backgrounds and experiences can wrestle, including boys and girls and athletes with handicaps and disabilities. Girls’ wrestling is one of the fastest growing sports in the country. We’re going to make Trenton a wrestling town.” said Mayor Gusciora
“This is a remarkable culmination of our trip to the United States to meet with Mayor Gusciora and to share our story with his team. We are honored to be a part of the growth of Trenton Youth Wrestling and Learning Center. It is evident that the city is committed to youth education of the mind and the body.” said Oksana Livach, a member of the delegation.
“Trenton Youth Wrestling and Learning Center and the City of Trenton stand with Ukraine and Ukraine stands with us!” said Raamiah Bethea, Director of Operations for the center.
A nonprofit organization, the Trenton Youth Wrestling and Learning Center offers free afterschool wrestling programs for boys and girls in the city, focusing on both physical training and building life skills such as discipline, self-regulation, and responsibility. The center is currently exploring opportunities to establish a home base facility to offer and expand their year-round services and programs.