ACODEPA Elections

Lee Named ACODEPA President

By United World Wrestling Press

LIMA, Peru (July 26) --- Mr. Francisco Eduardo LEE LOPEZ (GUA), United World Wrestling's Pan American Confederation of Wrestling President, was named President of the Annual Congress of the PANAMERICAN SPORTS CONFEDERATIONS ASSOCIATION (ACODEPA). Lee 

Lee, who'll hold the title of ACODEPA President until 2023, received 22 votes, while his opponenet José Manuel PELAEZ (CUB) received 16 votes. 

According to ACODEPA.org, "The Association of Pan American Sports Confederations, which will be named ACODEPA, is an international organization recognized by the Pan American Sports Organization PASO. ACODEPA is constituted by the Pan American Sports Confederations or Continental Sports Organizations recognized by their respective International Federation which must also have the recognition of the International Olympic Committee. 

Development

Guatamala plays host to 2024 Educators' Course

By United World Wrestling Press

PETEN, Guatemala (November 20) — Nestled in the depths of the ancient Mayan Empire, Peten, Guatemala, served as the 2024 Educators' Course host city. This event brought together 11 educators, including three referees and eight coaches, all hailing from Latin America. The course was held on November 11–12 to equip participants with tools to enhance their professional education practice.

Throughout the course, participants engaged in various activities designed to deepen their understanding of adult learning principles, using formative assessments, effective feedback strategies, and integrating new technologies as valuable educational tools. Beyond listening to lectures, educators actively participated in practical micro-leadership activities, teaching their peers topics from the UWW education program.

Vincent AKA (CIV) and Zach ERRET (USA) delivered the training, with support from Yuri MAIER (ARG) and the presence of Deqa NIAMKEY, Director of Development at United World Wrestling.

As an added cultural experience, the educators visited the Tikal National Park, immersing themselves in the rich heritage of the ancient Mayan civilization. They also stayed at a hotel nestled in the heart of the Central American jungle, fostering team dynamics and strengthening bonds among the participants. This camaraderie lays a strong foundation for collaboration during future courses they will deliver.

Notably, of the 11 participants, seven had prior experience as educators. The new additions to the program showcased impressive aptitude and readiness to embrace this new challenge, particularly as they prepare for the upcoming Olympic cycle leading to Los Angeles 2028.

Mr. Francisco LEE LOPEZ and his team coordinated the course and ensured its success. Mr. LEE also addressed the participants, extending a warm welcome, expressing gratitude, and commending their dedication to advancing the development of wrestling in the region.

This enriching experience elevated the educators’ professional capacities and underscored their vital role in shaping the future of wrestling education in Latin America.