#WomensDay2022

Commonwealth Games to be First-Ever Major Games Predominantly Officiated by Women

Monday, March 7, 2022 - 22:40 By United World Wrestling Press

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CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (March 8) -- Following the announcement of the International Olympic Committee in July 2021 to achieve gender parity for the '24 Paris Olympics, United World Wrestling launched a strategic plan with a specific focus on gender equality for the Olympic cycle.

The UWW Refereeing Commission, in collaboration with the Sports and Development Departments, undertook the task and will organize several courses throughout the next two years.

In May 2022, UWW will host the second educational program fully dedicated to female referees/officials with an aim to provide the latest education tools, online courses, practical sessions, empowerment training as part of this action plan and reduce the gender gap before the Paris Games.

Regarding the same, the Commonwealth Games Federation and UWW agreed to have a significantly higher percentage of women officials than men at the upcoming Commonwealth Games in August 2022. The wrestling competition will be officiated by 15 female referees out of 21 in total (over 70%), which is a first in the history of Wrestling. In addition, the Referee Delegate and other official positions will be fulfilled by a woman.

Currently, UWW has 10 female referees in the highest category (1S) and 91 female referees worldwide.

"We are committed to advancing wrestling in the right direction and promoting topics such as diversity, achieving gender parity, equal opportunities and access to education in all areas of our sport," Nenad LALOVIC, UWW President, said. "We are thrilled and excited to witness that the next Commonwealth Games in Birmingham will become the first major wrestling event that will have more than 70 percent women officials."

CWG

Since 2018, UWW has dedicated programs to female officials, coaches, referees and administrators to reduce the gender gap in the sport. National Federations such as Iran and Saudi Arabia organized courses dedicated to women which demonstrate that there are equal opportunities and sport is inevitably a major social development tool that contributes to shifting societies mindset.

“We are looking forward to providing equal opportunities to our wrestling community worldwide," Carlos Roy, UWW Secretary-General, said. "We are determined that the development programs will contribute to such topics in favor of all our national federations.”

Wrestling at the Commonwealth Games will take place at the Coventry Stadium in Birmingham on August 5 and 6, 2022.

#development

With Two Courses in 10 Days, India Dedicated to Developing Coaching Pool

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 - 09:46 By United World Wrestling Press

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NEW DELHI, India (April 7) -- The Wrestling Federation of India organized two courses in India last month. The first course was a Level 3 -- Introduction to Periodization and Coaching Philosophy and was held from March 21 to 25.

A second course was completed immediately after the first. This was a Level 2 -- Introduction to Practice Planning and was conducted from March 25 to 30. The courses were led by UWW Certified Educators Ahmed KHEDHRI (TUN).

“The participants engagement, along with the logistical and organizational support from the Indian Wrestling Federation, greatly contributed to the success of the courses," Khedhri said.

The Level 3 course was attended by 20 participants. During the five days, the participants covered a wide range of topics which included performance analysis, fundamentals of periodization, practice plan review and self-reflection.

The course also addressed coaching philosophy, self-awareness, leadership styles, and coach vision. These topics were covered through a variety of lectures, practical exercises, and interactive group discussion.

"The Level-3 coaching course was a great opportunity for learning and development. I appreciated the teaching style, depth of knowledge, and clear communication, all of which were motivating and inspiring," SB PRASAD, Greco-Roman coach, said.

The Level 2 course was attended by 41 participants. During the course, the coaches started with basic skill development and performance analysis basics and transitioned to the technicalities of designing and implementing practice plans.

The coaches learned the importance of designing sessions that are age and stage appropriate for their athletes. These interactive sessions included a mix of small group work and practical sessions.

“The Level-2 course was an incredible and enriching experience. I gained valuable knowledge that will greatly benefit my coaching career," Shilpi SHEORAN, Women's Wrestling Coach, said.  

IND
The 41 participants pose for a photo following the conclusion of the course. (Photo: United World Wrestling)

Comments from the participants:

“I found the Level-3 course highly valuable, highlighting the practical approach, detailed explanations, and continuous support throughout the program. These aspects enhanced my understanding and confidence as a coach.” – Vinod KUMAR, Head Coach, Freestyle National Team.

“The Level-2 course as extremely enriching and well-structured, with clear and engaging instruction. Thank you to UWW and WFI for organizing and facilitating this valuable program,” – Abhishek CHANDEL, Coach.