Accra, June 8, GNA - Gianni Merlo, President of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) on Friday paid courtesy calls on telecommunication giants, MTN and the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).

The AIPS President is in the country for the 37th MTN-SWAG Awards billed for Saturday, June 9 at the Banquet Halll, State House, Accra, where he is to be the Guest of Honour.

MTN are the headline sponsors of this year's edition of the event that seeks to reward distinguished sports personalities for their efforts in the year 2011, whilst the GJA is the mother body of journalists in the country.

Merlo emphasized on the relevance of training and team work to the young generation of journalists to catch up with the emerging technological world.

He tasked Sports Journalist to remain 'brave and positive' in the discharge of their duties and also work hand in hand with governments in the fight against corruption.

Cynthia Lumor, Corporate Services Executive of MTN appreciated the visit of the AIPS President, which she said is a testimony of their relationship with SWAG after sponsoring the last three editions of the annual ceremony.

She assured of the unflinching support of MTN towards the activities of SWAG as well as the development of sports generally across the country as part of their corporate social responsibility.

Bright Blewu, GJA General Secretary commended SWAG for sustaining the event which has been running for the past 37-years and pledged support to work with SWAG towards promoting sports journalism.

Merlo was accompanied by Mitchell Obi (Nigeria) and Evelyn Watta (Kenya), both members of the Executive Committee of AIPS.

Over 25 sports men and women drawn from several sporting disciplines would on the Night receive trophies, medals and certificates among others for their efforts in the year 2011.

The topmost award, 'Sports Personality of the Year Award' has Andre Dede Ayew, Ajara Mohammed and Harrison Afful as the competitors, with Andre Ayew, Emmanuel Agyeman Badu and Harrison Afful also vying for the 'Footballer of the Year Award'.

GNA