Spartans Celebrate 20 Years
Can you believe that it has been 20 years since the Spartan Wrestling Club was founded?
On Dec. 4, 1991 the club held its first practice at Penguin Place, the Gay & Lesbian Community Center of Philadelphia. The club gained in popularity and made its first tournament debut in 1994 at Gay Games IV in New York. Over the years we have welcomed men and women of all skill levels. During this time, the Club has provided instruction and a friendly environment for wrestling.
Since 1994 the Spartans have participated and medalled in every Gay Games. More importantly, we have demonstrated athleticism and sportsmanship. Our club travels to other cities in the US to participate in tournaments and now also organizes freestyle wrestling competitions of our own here in Philadelphia.
The Club's stature has grown steadily over the years and several veteran wrestlers are now included in the Hall of Merit of the international organization Wrestlers Without Borders. The Spartan Wrestling Club is a founding member of WWoB. Team Philadelphia also counts the Club as one of its charter teams and longtime supporters.
Over the years we have benefited from volunteer efforts of great coaches, referees, and members. Although the Spartans are a non-profit, all volunteer group, the operating cost of equipment and venue rental are significant.
Whether you've enjoyed watching the Spartans at tournaments and exhibitions or are a former athlete yourself, we hope you will join us to celebrate 20 years of camaraderie, fun and sport at our Anniversary Party & Fundraiser. We have organized an all-you-can-eat buffet (beer & wine available for purchase), and thanks to some great donations of goods and services we will conduct a silent auction in which all proceeds will go toward the operating expenses of the Club.
Please join us!
SWC & AAU Renewals
Spartan Wrestling Club membership year ended August 31 as did the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) memberships.
Remember to renew your memberships now. SWC memberships are pro-rated, meaning that you pay only from the date you join through August 31 . AAU memberships are required for practices and tournaments.
You may renew at practice or contact Michael LoFurno for more details at: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Final Standings in 2011 Spartans Pride Tournament
Bantamweight Match (129-140 lbs)
- Carl Weisberger, Metro
- Neil Brantley, PS
- Rick Van Tassell, PS
- Adrian Sie, Metro
Lightweight Match (148-157 lbs)
- Mike Faraci, Metro
- Chris Lorefice, SCWC
- Adam Kopchien, Metro
- Tom Randall, Metro
Middleweight Match (170-180 lbs)
- Mark Evans, Metro
- Kris Burrell, Metro
- Sam Martin, Metro
- Antonio Velázquez, Metro
Heavyweight Match (192-197 lbs)
- Jonathan Gutiérrez, PS
- Mike Simone, Metro
- Ed Wengryn, PS
Key:
Metro: Metro Wrestling Club, New York City
PS: Philadelphia Spartans, Philadelphia
SCWC: Southern California Wrestling Club, West Hollywood

