Obituary

Vadim Psarev, Hall of Fame Greco-Roman Coach, Dies at 86

By United World Wrestling Press

ALMATY, Kazakhstan (January 14) -- Legendary Greco-roman wrestling coach Vadim PSAREV passed away Saturday, January 12 in Almaty, Kazakhstan. He was 86.

During his long career, Psarev coached five Olympic medalists, including three Olympic gold medals. The native Russian also coached 12 gold medalists at World Championships and World Cups. 

Psarev was recognized by United World Wrestling in 2014 with his selection to the organization's Hall of Fame. He was also awarded as an "Honored Coach of USSR" (1969) for his work with the USSR in the 40's, 50's and 60's. 

Psarev later became the head Greco-Roman coach for the Kazakhstan national team head coach and was later given the title of "Honored Coach of Kazakhstan."

A farewell ceremony for Psarev will be held on January 15 at 10am in the sports complex "Dostyk" at 48 Abay Avenue, Almaty.

Famous Wrestlers Under Psarev

Ushkempirov, Zhaksylyk (1951) - champion and medalist of the USSR Championships, medalist of the European Championships, World Championships and Olympic Games, Honored Master of Sports of the USSR.

Bakulin Vladimir (1939–2012) - prize-winner of the USSR Championships, European and World Championships, Olympic Games prize-winner, Honored Master of Sports of the USSR.

Detsiev Bisolt (1964) - champion of the USSR and Europe, winner of the USSR Cup and the world Cup,Asian Championship medallist.

Nazarenko Anatoly (1948) - champion and medalist of the USSR, Europe and World Championships, Olympic medalist, Honored Master of Sports of the USSR.

Rezantsev Valery (1946) - champion of the USSR, Europe, the world, the Olympic Games, Honored Master of Sports of the USSR.

UWW's Event Organization Workshop heats up in Athens

By United World Wrestling Press

ATHENS, Greece (July 30) -- United World Wrestling held a new edition of its Event Organization Workshop in Athens, Greece, from July 24-29.

The activity was conducted by the UWW Sports Department and took place on the sidelines of the U17 World Championships, offering participants an immersive experience to learn directly within the context of a major international event.

A total of 25 participants from 16 countries attended the workshop -- with nearly 50 percent of the attendees being women -- representing national federations and upcoming event organizers.

The attendees took part in theoretical sessions and field-based learning covering critical areas such as accreditation, sport presentation, information technology tools, event operations, and venue logistics. They also had the chance to observe the live execution of the Championships, attend the Technical Conference, and tour key competition areas.

The Local Organizing Committee played an important role in supporting the delivery of the workshop, facilitating access to venues, providing logistical coordination, and sharing their experience in hosting a major international event. Their collaboration was key to ensuring a smooth and enriching experience for all participants.

To complement the technical content, the group also enjoyed a cultural visit to the Acropolis, one of the most iconic landmarks in Athens. This excursion helped foster exchange and camaraderie among participants, while providing a connection to the host city’s rich heritage.

UWW
Attendees walk through accreditation, sport presentation, information technology tools, event operations, and venue logistics at the Event Organization Workshop in Athens. (Photo: United World Wrestling)

The workshop was facilitated by members of the UWW team, who shared their expertise and provided hands-on guidance throughout the sessions. The collaborative format encouraged knowledge exchange and open dialogue, creating a dynamic learning environment.

Participants expressed high satisfaction with the content and format of the workshop, noting its relevance and practicality. The mix of classroom instruction, real-event exposure, and networking opportunities made the experience both educational and inspiring.

This edition of the Event Organization Workshop reinforced UWW’s commitment to building local capacities and delivering high-standard wrestling events across the world. Athens 2025 once again proved the value of this initiative and the importance of continuing to invest in professional training for sport event delivery.

Ramil AHMADOV, UWW Senior Competition Manager, and Yuri MAIER, Sports & Development Officer, conducted the workshop. We were honored to have Theodoros HAMAKOS, Vice-President of UWW, award the certificates.