USFMMA Executive Director Diana Thomas-Williams was in attendance for the very first United States Fight League sanctioned youth pankration event in the state of Wisconsin. Here is what she had to say of her experience:
“I had the pleasure of seeing first hand the youth development platform under USFL. The youth who participated were confident, professional and skilled. I was truly impressed with their level of talent at their ages and I know they will be among the biggest names in the future of our sport.
The team of officials, the leadership and staff over yesterdays event proved to be just as passionate and dedicated as the athletes themselves. I have personally worked many youth events within other combat sports and have never seen such a diverse team show such support.
I am especially proud to see so many of the top fighters from the UFC and Bellator MMA in attendance. I am truly looking forward to the growth of events such as these and working with the officials/staff as we continue to grow nationally.” – Diana Willams
Pictured below is just a few images of the team of support in attendance: UFC stars Maycee “The Future” Barber, Anthony “Showtime” Pettis, Ben Rothwell, Sergio “The Phenom” Pettis, Jordan Griffin, Gerald Meerschaert III, Mike Biggie Rhodes. Plus Bellator Standout Emmanuel “El Matador” Sanchez! Also supported by the man behind the scenes putting in work Scott Joffe. Of course none of this is possible without Coach Duke Roufus himself! Dan LaSavage of Combat Corner Professional also stepping in to show his support along with the President of USFL Mr Jon Frank whose vision for a proper safe platform for youth development is being recognized on a national and international level. USFMMA Co-Founder Justin Brown stepped in to Ref some bouts as well as head up the rules/regs meeting for the inaugural event.
Also in attendance were USFMMA Athletes Advisory Council Member David Evans, USFMMA/USFL Regional Director Logan Santschi and USFMMA Womens Commission/Ethics Committee Member and USFL Board member Christina Taylor whos boys have become standouts in youth pankration competition.
