THE BEGINNING OF NATIONAL RECOGNITION?

New Guidelines for Muay Thai   were presented to the ABC (Association of Boxing Commissions) at the General meeting held on July 30th, 2009, in New Orleans , LA. These guidelines were submitted by Nick Lembo, NJSAC and on behalf of ABC President Tim Lueckenhoff of the Missouri commission.

When asked how the commission received the information presented on the sport, it was stated that, “It was well received as guidelines”, said Nick Lembo of the NJSAC. “We meaning the ABC, set up a committee to review these guidelines and offer ‘Unified Rules’ for adoption next year after more interaction with the Muay Thai community”, said Nick Lembo.

The committee formed which included as Chairman: Nick Lembo of the New Jersey Athletic Commission, Commissioner Joe Miller of the Oklahoma Athletic Commission, Commissioner Bernie Profato of Ohio State Athletic Commission, Commissioner Chad Kurle from the North Dakota State Athletic Commission and Dr. Sherry Wulkan, a Physician of the New York and New Jersey State Athletic Control Boards.

Pending the complete review and acceptance of the new guidelines by the States next year, the Muay Thai committee will put into motion its Muay Thai Advisory Board (MTAB) who will then work in conjunction with the new committee and the ABC. At this moment, and subject to acceptance- the MTAB consists of: Arjarn Clint Heyliger,  Arjarn Tony Moore, Arjarn Kumron  Vaitaynon, Kru Stephen Strotmeyer, and Dr. Tony Myers.

This could be the major step up the ladder for Muay Thai in the U.S. If the ABC hopefully accepts the guidelines, then in 12 months time, the real work begins….