MTN pledges support for 37th SWAG Awards

Accra, May 3, GNA – Telecommunications outfit, MTN has pledged support towards the organization of the 37th Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) Awards Night fixed for June 9 at the Banquet Hall, State House, Accra.

The Awards Night will see the Sports media outfit rewarding sportsmen and women in over 25 categories for their achievement in 2010.

Cynthia Lumor, Corporate Services Executives of MTN at the launch of the Awards Gala on Thursday in Accra said her outfit had enjoyed a symbiotic relationship with SWAG over the years as far as the annual event is concerned.

She said SWAG has carved a niche with the movers and shakers of the sports fraternity, who have graced the event in the past and commended the Association for ensuring that Sports men and women are duly recognized for their efforts.

Ms Lumor mentioned that her outfit will soon announce a package towards the successful organization of the Awards Gala.

Clement Kofi Humado, Minister of Youth and Sports commended SWAG for sustaining the event which has been running since 1968.

The Sports Minister eschewed the membership of SWAG to remain transparent in the selection process to reward deserving sports men and women, whilst advising Sports Journalists to exhibit a high level of professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

He also assured of his Ministry's support towards organizing a successful event and also to develop Sports, especially the lesser-known ones with the requisite facilities across the country.

Ackah Anthony, President of SWAG disclosed that the Awards Gala will be graced by Gianni Merlo, President of the Association of International Press for Sports (AIPS) to maintain the recent tradition of adding international dimension to the ceremony.

He explained that the winners were selected based on their performance during the year.

The SWAG President said the public will play a part in the selection process for the two prestigious awards, Footballer of the Year and Sports Personality of the Year by casting their votes on selected news portals including www.myjoyonline.com , www.ghananewsagency.org , www.peacefmonline.com and www.ghanasoccernet.com.

Para-athlete Ajara Mohammed, Andre Ayew and Harrison Afful are vying for the Sports Personality of the Year, and Emmanuel Agyemang Badu together with Ayew and Afful for the Footballer of the Year prize.

Mr Worlanyo Agra, Director General of the National Sports Authority chaired the programme.

GNA