Local MMA body to partner with Suriname counterpart to develop coaching programme
Following his historic appointment to the executive committee of the Pan American Mixed Martial Arts Federation, president of the Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Federation (GMMAF), Gavin Singh, has inked a partnership with Suriname for the staging of a local coaching programme.
This was confirmed by Singh during an exclusive interview with Stabroek Sports. Singh, who will serve as a director for the entire South American region, stated that the initiative was borne out of discussions with the Suriname Federation to develop the entire sporting landscape of the discipline.
He added that this programme will serve as preparation for the Pan American Federation’s coaching seminar, which is tentatively billed to commence during the month of July. The initiative will be spearheaded by Suriname’s MMA executive and coach, Benito Linger, and experienced MMA trainer and former competitor, Eric Alexandre.
Born in Suriname, Linger is a Muay Thai and kickboxing instructor with over 24 years of experience in combat sports. He is also the owner of Home-Grown, a MMA promotion. On the other hand, Alexandre, who was born in France and lived in Brazil for seven years, possesses a 2nd degree black belt in Jiu-Jitsu under Tyrone Gonzales.
Linger explained that the primary objective of the initiative is to create a culture and brand for the discipline in Guyana, which is currently in its infancy stage.
According to the instructor, a strong fighting culture needs to be established within the region and the development of qualified coaches will provide the avenue for the creation of world-class athletes.
Echoing similar sentiments was Alexandre, who stated that the intention is to eventually develop and professionalise the culture in Guyana so that fighters have the capacity and faculty to eventually enter the professional realm.
Singh stated that this is the first of several initiatives that will be conceptualised and implemented by the association by utilising its recent connection to the Pan-American Federation.
Singh’s ascension to the post was confirmed by the President of the Pan American Mixed Martial Arts Federation, and Trinidad and Tobago native, Jason Fraser. He was approved by more than 80 percent of the region and becomes the first Guyanese to serve on the Pan-American executive board.
The GMMAF under Singh’s stewardship, has competed in two international events. Guyana made its international debut at the IMMAF Amateur World Championships in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, in January 2022. The team comprised Ijaz Cave and Carlos D’Anjou.
The association also participated at the Pan American Championship in Monterrey, Mexico from June 22nd-24th 2022. The three-member team comprised Shenese Bobb, Trevlon Clarke, and Carl Ramsay.