A New Chapter for Singapore Armwrestling: SGAW's Transition to WAF Affiliation

We are excited to announce that Singapore Armwrestling (SGAW) has officially transitioned to the World Armwrestling Federation (WAF). This move marks a major milestone in our journey to strengthen the sport in Singapore and expand opportunities for our athletes on the global stage.

As part of this transition, SGAW has merged with ArmSport Singapore (ASG). ASG is a local armwrestling federation aligned with the WAF, dedicated to the highest standards in competition, athlete development, and fostering the competitive spirit within the community with support for athlete funding.

This merger unifies the community under a single banner while continuing to build on the legacy we have created together.

Why We Made the Move

Our decision to affiliate with WAF brings several key benefits that will help us reach our long-term goals:

• International Recognition: By affiliating with WAF, our athletes will have the opportunity to compete in premier global competitions, including world championships and regional events such as the Asian Cup.

• National Sports Association (NSA) Status: This affiliation is an important step towards achieving NSA status. This will open doors for greater resources, funding, and support from local sporting bodies, helping to grow armwrestling as a recognized sport in Singapore.

• Global Opportunities: Our athletes will be able to compete in WAF-sanctioned events, gaining exposure and experience at the highest level of the sport.

What This Means for Our Athletes

With our WAF affiliation comes important guidelines and responsibilities, particularly regarding participation in events organized by WAF's rival organizations, which include the International Federation of Armwrestling (IFA), Professional Armwrestling League (PAL), and the Unified Rating of Professional Armwrestling (URPA).

• SGAW-affiliated athletes (members) who have competed in any WAF-sanctioned events are prohibited from participating in events organized by WAF's rival organizations. Doing so may result in disciplinary actions, including a ban from both SGAW and WAF competitions.

• SGAW will enforce this rule strictly to ensure our standing with WAF remains intact, as WAF mandates that any affiliated members or athletes who participate in these rival organizations may jeopardize their ability to compete in WAF events.

• However, non-SGAW members are free to participate in events organized by WAF's rival organizations without any restrictions from SGAW. That said, these athletes may be deemed "Not in Good Standing" with WAF, which could affect their eligibility for future WAF competitions.

FAQs

1. Why did SGAW transition from IFA to WAF?

SGAW transitioned to WAF affiliation to align with the World Armwrestling Federation, which offers international recognition and helps us move closer to achieving National Sports Association (NSA) from Sport Singapore status. This is vital for securing government support, funding, and elevating the sport of armwrestling in Singapore.

2. What does this mean for athletes competing under SGAW?

SGAW-affiliated athletes will now be able to participate in WAF-sanctioned events like world championships and the Asian Cup. However, athletes who are members of SGAW must not participate in events organized by WAF's rival organizations to maintain their eligibility for WAF competitions.

3. Can non-SGAW athletes compete in events organized by WAF’s rival organizations?

Yes, athletes who are not affiliated with SGAW may compete in events organized by WAF's rival organizations. SGAW does not regulate non-members. However, these athletes may be deemed "Not in Good Standing" with WAF, which could affect their ability to compete in future WAF events.

4. What happens if an SGAW member participates in an event organized by WAF’s rival organizations?

SGAW-affiliated athletes who participate in events organized by WAF's rival organizations will result in disciplinary actions by SGAW as this would jeopardize SGAW’s standing with WAF. SGAW reserves the right to take disciplinary action, including banning the athlete from future SGAW-sanctioned events.

5. What are the benefits of WAF affiliation for SGAW athletes?

WAF affiliation provides access to the highest levels of competition, such as the World Championships, and increases the credibility and visibility of our athletes on the global stage. It also opens up the potential for government support and funding through SportSG.

6. How does this merger affect SGAW’s future?

The merger with ArmSport Singapore strengthens SGAW’s foundation and consolidates resources, ensuring that we can continue to provide high-quality opportunities for our athletes. This move also aligns us with WAF’s international framework, paving the way for future growth.