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The second day of the WMMA Awards saw a day of remembrance, inspiration, and a look into the future of the sport.

The show started out with Georgia promoter David Oblas talking about two fighters we have lost during the year, Maryellen Cano and Sheri Thompson. 2010 Legacy Award winner Sam Wilson also helps us remember Mia Hayes, who lost her battle with breast cancer this year. In her memory, the WMMA Press has named “The Might Mia Inspirational Fighter of the Year”  after her.

Also handed out Friday were the Amateur fighter of the year, and the Sponsors of the Year.

You can listen to the complete show here.

The final WMMA Awards show is Saturday at 1 p.m. pacific/4 p.m. eastern. (Listen here)

Mighty Mia Inspirational Fighter of the Year – Sara McMann

If there was one person who emphasizes the true meaning of rolling with the punches, it’s Sara McMann. At age 9, Sara started wrestling in tournaments after the encouragement of her brother Jason; who she would lose a decade later. Sara would make strides around that time as a wrestler on the men’s team at the Universityof Minnesota-Morris, and then Lock Haven University.

From there she would make her way through the amateur wrestling ranks to win a silver medal in the Olympics, the firstU.S.woman to do so in freestyle wrestling. Tragedy would strike soon after as she was in a car accident in which her fiancé was killed. Sara would once again battle back from tragedy, taking up grappling and making the transition to MMA in 2010. This year she went 4-0.

Among Sara’s charitable contributions, she is an active member of Habitat for Humanity and Safe Homes, and continues to speak and encourage girls to take up wrestling.

Sponsors of the Year – Tussle Fight Gear & Fight Chix (Tie)

Fight Chix are one of the first female MMA brands to get national distribution in a chain store; and have always been a firm supporter of female fighters. From arranging autograph signings with top fighters to helping female fighters being recognized; they have been a tremendous help gaining support for the sport.

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Tussle Fight Gear have sponsored more fighters in women’s MMA than any other company. They were a huge support at the G2 Summit this past summer, and continue not only help fighters with gear, but also helping them find fights throughout the world.

Amateur Female Fighter of the Year – Taylor Stratford

She has continued her rise this year, only losing once to Ronda Rousey which is tough task for anyone. At the age of 20, she has stacked an impressive amateur record of 9-1, and will be turning pro in 2012.

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This post is related to an ongoing story:

• MMA: The Women are Here to Stay

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