by Modou Lamin Jammeh in Dakar, Senegal
One of the greatest and most respected wrestlers of Senegal, Eumeu Sene, has described Gambian wrestlers as promising products. He said if Senegal is producing superstars in the sport, why not The Gambia.
Sene made these remarks on Friday, during an exclusive interview with Observer Light in Dakar, Senegal. “I knew what Gambia has when it comes to the aspect of wrestling, after having the opportunity to witness some interesting combats between heroes of the country. I saw real perseverance and readiness in them to do the game, besides their interest towards it I can tell you that The Gambia will soon be counted among the world class wrestling countries,” he explained.
According to him, wrestling is rapidly growing in The Gambia and the game is now dominating so many sporting activities in Africa, most especially Senegal. He added that The Gambia’s Wrestling Federation is really doing a fantastic job by pushing the game to a bigger level, saying they should continue creating more platforms for wrestlers to develop themselves.
He noted that The Gambia stands a better chance to produce so many superstars in wrestling than many other countries in Africa, as the country’s leader has great passion for the game and is showing utmost interest to promote and support it in The Gambia and beyond.
Eumeu Sene disclosed that one of his discussions with President Jammeh was basically about how to develop wrestling as a game in the country. “I know that The Gambian leader knows the game but I was actually surprised to realise that he knows it that far after he rectified me on a mistake I made in one of my very important combats that led to my defeat,” he added.
He encouraged Gambian wrestling promoters to keep up the great job and continue working tirelessly with the wrestlers to develop the game more in country, whilst challenging companies to give out sponsorship for promoters to organise more combats.
“President Jammeh is my father, friend, source of inspiration and motivation. He has done a lot for me towards the development of my career and I’m appreciative of the fact that the love he has shown to me is beyond imagination. I pray that God continue to guide and protect him and also give him long life and prosperity to continue leading Gambia in peace,” he prayed.
“Each time I signed a combat, my first training is going to be done in The Gambia and I will love to have a combat in The Gambia before retiring as a wrestler by God’s grace.”
He thanked The Gambia for the love and support and prayed for Allah to continue blessing the country abundantly.