The following is the letter of recognition sent to Anees.

Dear Anees,

Congratulations on being selected as the recipient of the 2009 United States Amateur Athletic Union Taekwondo Youth Leadership Award.  AAU Taekwondo athletes between the ages of 15-18 years of age and the rank of B lack Belt are eligible for this award each year. You were chosen by our panel of judges based on your outstanding scholastic record, an accomplished Taekwondo competition record, and your overall dedication towards striving for excellence in all of your endeavors.  We are fortunate to have the next generation of leaders as a part of our program.

Y our scholastic record is outstanding and the ability to maintain a 4.0 average while dedicating time to family and training demonstrates the sheer discipline and focus you exhibit in all areas of your life. Competitively, your record is beyond impressive. You have been an AAU Team member several times and fought to a Gold Medal in Germany and Holland, beating the top athlete’s in the world on your way to the medals podium. You were even the 2nd alternate to the Beijing Olympic Games before the age of 18! Off the mat, you have been a role model on w hat it means to be an AAU Team member. Your work ethic and desire to help the program has been exemplary.
Congratulations on winning this award and you will soon be receiving a Scholarship check in the amount of $1,000.00 for higher education. The A AU Taekwondo program is proud to support you in your scholastic endeavors.Sincerely,

Mr. Scott Fiorilo
AAU Taekwondo Youth Leadership Award Program Administrator