FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 22, 2004
Contact:  Erin K. Kelly
(717) 846-2828
ekelly@pasen.gov
Back

Senator Waugh Introduces Resolution Recognizing Local Man's Efforts to Bring Martial Arts Competitions to Pennsylvania

HARRISBURG – State Sen. Mike Waugh (28-York), introduced Senate Resolution 313 today to recognize the efforts of York County resident Tony Abel in bringing the International Martial Arts College program to the United States and Pennsylvania. Abel is a member of the College's Board of Directors.

Since 1993 Master Abel has served as a team captain and coach of American teams that have competed internationally with the backing of the International Martial Arts College, an organization that recognizes national and international champions. Its goal is to establish the martial arts as a recognized Olympic event.

Through the International Martial Arts Committee, which Master Abel established in 1995, he promotes international understanding through martial arts competition. Based in York, the organization is working to bring more competitions to Pennsylvania, in preparation for the time when martial arts receive official recognition as an Olympic event. These tournaments will serve as qualifying events for a United States Olympic martial arts team.

In addition to Master Abel, Sen. Waugh's resolution recognizes the efforts of Master George Bierman and Judge Thomas Kelley for their assistance with the teams as athletes and ambassadors of good will.

A similar resolution HR 807, introduced by Representative Keith Gillespie, was passed in the House of Representatives in June.