#UnitedWorldWrestling

UWW adopts Sustainability Charter, reinforces core statements

By United World Wrestling Press

CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (June 28) -- United World Wrestling announced the adoption of its Sustainability Charter and new core statements that will guide the organization's future endeavors.

UWW remains committed to its mission of leading the growth of wrestling, competitive and recreational, in all its styles around the world, while striving to be globally recognized as an inspiring, innovative, and leading Olympic federation.

UWW's core statements, including its mission, vision, and values, represent the organization's fundamental beliefs that drive its decisions and actions.

Unity stands at the forefront, as UWW champions respect, belonging, and cooperation among its members. Integrity is paramount, with UWW emphasizing trustworthiness, accountability, and ethical conduct in all aspects of its operations. Finally, resilience fuels UWW's determination to overcome challenges through hard work and discipline, leading to success for the wrestling community.

In line with its dedication to a sustainable future, UWW has introduced its Sustainability Charter. This comprehensive framework is designed to promote sustainable practices, events, and approaches that contribute to wrestling's global development while addressing the world's pressing challenges. The Sustainability Charter encourages UWW and its affiliated national federations to adopt realistic and feasible approaches to support a more sustainable environment.

The principles outlined in UWW's Sustainability Charter encompass a range of sustainability practices within the sport of wrestling. These include initiatives focused on transportation, waste reduction, energy conservation, water preservation, and actions promoting social and economic sustainability.

By fostering awareness of climate and environmental issues, UWW aims to ensure the practice of wrestling for future generations amidst the challenges of climate change, economic crises, and geographic disparities that affect the global wrestling community.

UWW's commitment to sustainability aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), serving as a catalyst for change in several key areas.

Among these, pursuing the SDG 4: Quality Education, UWW strives to provide access to wrestling through grassroots and school programs while offering continuous education opportunities for coaches, referees, and administrators in close collaboration with national federations and stakeholders.

Under SDG 5: Gender Equality, UWW has integrated gender equality programs into its 2022-2026 Strategy, promoting equal opportunities and representation within the sport.

By adopting the Sustainability Charter and aligning with the SDGs, UWW showcases its dedication to sustainability, ensuring the practice of wrestling for future generations while contributing to a more sustainable world.

Development

Divcibare hosts 2025-2026 Educator-Educator Course

By United World Wrestling Press

DIVČIBARE, Serbia (February 13) — Nestled in the scenic mountains of Serbia, DivČibare served as the host city for the 2025-2026 Educator-Educator Course, held from January 23-26. This event gathered 28 participants from 17 different countries across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas, including Olympic and world champions, referees, and experienced coaches, all eager to enhance their instructional skills and contribute to the development of wrestling education worldwide.

The course was expertly led by Vincent AKA (CIV) and Zach ERRET (USA), with the presence of Deqa NIAMKEY, Director of Development at United World Wrestling (UWW). Over four days, participants engaged in a dynamic and interactive learning experience, covering advanced pedagogical concepts such as the 80/20 teaching method, effective feedback techniques (TAG), and innovative use of technology in sports education. Microteaching sessions provided a hands-on approach, allowing attendees to refine their skills by delivering lessons and receiving constructive peer feedback.

4.0Participants go through an on-the-mat training course at Serbia. (Photo: United World Wrestling)

A highlight of the program was the diverse exchange of experiences among participants. “As an Olympic champion, I will definitely incorporate many of the concepts from this course into my future programs,” noted Komeil GHASEMI (IRI). Mo EGYPT, a world champion, emphasized the importance of integrating new technologies and interactive teaching methods into coaching strategies, while Nenad ZUGAJ (CRO) described the experience as “a course where we all participated through various tasks, helping and guiding each other.”

Beyond the classroom, the event fostered camaraderie among educators, strengthening global collaboration for future wrestling education initiatives. Participants enjoyed their stay at a tranquil mountain hotel, enhancing team dynamics and cultural exchange.

srb 2UWW staff walk through the interactive learning experience, covering advanced pedagogical concepts such as the 80/20 teaching method, effective feedback techniques (TAG), and innovative use of technology in sports educatio. (Photo: United World Wrestling)

Deqa NIAMKEY highlighted the significance of this course at the start of a new Olympic cycle, stressing UWW’s commitment to renewing and strengthening its educational programs by involving high-level experts and supporting athletes in their transition to coaching roles.

With a renewed sense of purpose and enriched teaching methodologies, the educators left Divččibare prepared to contribute to the continuous growth of wrestling education worldwide. The course not only elevated professional capacities but also reinforced the shared mission of developing the next generation of wrestling instructors through innovation and excellence.