Ukrainian National Wrestling Team

For Immediate Release: November 22, 2023

Ukrainian National Wrestling Team Visits Trenton

Trenton, NJ

A delegation from the Ukrainian Women’s National Wrestling Team visited Trenton City Hall today on the last leg of their international tour and visited with Mayor Reed Gusciora to learn about the city’s investment in the sport of wrestling and to promote awareness of the current challenges facing citizens in their homeland.

“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.
 
“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. In fact, girl’s wrestling is one of the fastest growing sports in the country. We’re going to make Trenton a wrestling town.” said Mayor Gusciora

The Mayor welcomed the Ukrainian National Wrestling team in their visit to the city and noted, interestingly, the state's flag colors and the Ukrainian flag are nearly identical! The National Team learned more about wrestling in the city and the positive impact it has on youth.  The sport teaches life skills such as discipline, self regulation and responsibility.  The Trenton Youth Wrestling and Learning Center, which is a nonprofit organization, offers free after school wrestling opportunities for boys and girls in the city.  The center is currently searching for a home base and facility to offer their year-round services.

“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.

The visit from the Ukrainian National Team was a memorable one.  Though an individual sport, the team camaraderie in wrestling is unique. Thank you to Mayor Guscoria and the City of Trenton for hosting.

Enquiries: Ray Bethea (609) 553-8150