Mayor welcomes young wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu champion

THE sporting achievements of nine-year-old Leon Williamson were celebrated at a Mayor’s Reception last week, where Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Dawn Huggins, met with the young wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Champion.

Leon, from Portstewart, was joined by his mum, Melanie and coach, Peter McClay from Team Ryano Causeway, as they shared his story of dedication and success in the sports.

Despite having only trained for three years, Leon has already enjoyed considerable success, including World Championship gold and bronze medals, gold at the Irish Open and four gold medals at the Empire Gold competition.

Commenting on Leon’s achievements, Mayor Councillor Dawn Huggins said: “Leon is a wonderful young man who has shown tremendous dedication to his sport. It was a pleasure to welcome him to the Mayor’s Office and hear about his achievements. His mum and his coach are incredibly proud of him, and rightly so.

“To have achieved so much after only three years of training is a fantastic accomplishment, and I have no doubt that Leon has a very bright future ahead of him. I am a great advocate for the benefits of sport, not only for physical wellbeing but also for mental health and confidence. It was wonderful to have the opportunity to recognise Leon’s hard work and celebrate his success.”

Head Coach Peter McClay said: “I’ve been teaching Leon for the last three years. He turns up, gets stuck in, and if he keeps on going the way he’s going, watch this space! Leon is born for combat sports, and Team Ryano will take him to where he needs to be.”