By Press Release

[London. 1 June 2018] Former Head of Development for the International Sambo Federation, Dr. Andrew Moshanov, joins forces with the International MMA Federation (IMMAF) as its new Director of Development.

As Head of Development for International Sambo Federation from 2012 to 2017, Moshanov was responsible for the development of new and existing national federations. During that time he introduced sambo to thirty-two new nations, supporting them to gain recognition from National Olympic Committees and national sport authorities.

Moshanov’s prior role saw him as Technical Director of the British Judo Association from 2005 to 2010. His work included the implementation of a new comprehensive technical syllabus and system of non-competitive grading. He worked on the implementation of the United Kingdom Coaching Certificate (UKCC) and Long-Term Athlete Development concept (LTAD).

With an IJF 6th Dan in Judo, Moshanov’s early career heralded him as personal of coach of five World Sambo Champions (1988-1992), before he led the Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) National Judo team in their training for the XIII Asian and Olympic Games (1996- 2000). Moshanov entered sports administration as Sports Director for Russian Judo (2000-2004) in charge of the preparation of the national team for all major events.

With a PhD from Moscow State University of Physical Education and Sport (2000), he has lectured in Sports Training Science at the University of Bath and acted as a postgraduate student supervisor at Anglia Ruskin University. He holds an honours in coaching for Russia (the highest coaching distinction) and is a lifetime Honorary National Judo coach for the UK police.

Of his appointment, IMMAF President Kerrith Brown said: “It’s an accolade to have Andrew on board with the vast experience he brings from working across core sports at both national and international level. He will bring invaluable impetus and expertise to IMMAF’s Talent and Coaches Development Pathway, which is essential to the growth and longevity of MMA as a core sport in its own right and to youth development. Furthermore, this appointment brings credibility to amateur and grass roots MMA as we continue in our bid for sport recognition from GAISF and WADA.”

President of recent affiliate, WMMAA, Vadmin Finkelchtein said: “I am glad to welcome Andrew in the MMA family and I am sure he is the right man for the job. His experience will surely get us closer to the recognition with every passing day.”

Andrew Moshanov commented: “I am delighted to join the team of single-minded people making MMA the fastest growing sport of XXI century.”