kouratane

Kourtane Olympic Training Facility Undergoes Expansion

By United World Wrestling Press

CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (May 27) -- United World Wrestling partner Kourtane Training Center in Finland has completed the expansion of their main training facility. The upgrade includes more than 1000 square meters of additional training and workout space for the Finnish Wrestling Team and international guests.

The aim of the wrestling hall is to allow for it to become a main location for training camps prior or post major events, especially for women’s wrestling.
 
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic its unclear when the first training camp or competition will be held in the new facility, but there is some hope that one might be hosted by year-end inviting the neighboring countries if permitted. Some camps include upper weights categories focused on women and a selection of regional preparation tournaments.

”I hope we can organize together the next training camp in KOTC before the end of 2020 after the end of the pandemic," said Antti PEKKALA Secretary General of Finnish Wrestling Federation. "I am personally working hard for the organization of the U23 Worlds planned this coming November in Tampere and to organize an international training camp in conjunction with the championship. I look forward to welcoming the UWW family to Finland”

For further information on the Kourtane Training Center and opportunities, please contact development@unitedworldwrestling.org

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ASDEG Workshop: IF experts discuss AI and new technologies in coaching

By United World Wrestling Press

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (December 4) -- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other new technologies in coaching topped the agenda of last week’s ASOIF Sport Development and Education Group (ASDEG) Workshop held in Lausanne. The meeting attracted more than 60 experts representing over 30 International Federations (IFs) to gain new insights, share best practice and learn from each other.

United World Wrestling Development Director and ASDEG Chair Deqa NIAMKEY attended the two-day workshop and highlighted the importance of the Workshop when she said:

"This edition of the ASDEG Workshop offered a diverse range of relatable topics to the IFs, focusing on the transformative potential of AI through inclusive education, innovation, and tailored applications for each IF’s unique needs," Niamkey said. "The Workshop serves as a valuable platform for networking, exchanging ideas, sharing best practices, and transferring knowledge, all aligned with ASOIF's overarching good governance strategy. I would like to extend my gratitude to ASOIF and their team for their remarkable efforts in organizing such initiatives that elevate our sports, and to the ASDEG for their dedication and invaluable contributions."

The annual meeting is action-oriented and the participants agreed to implement the following initiatives over the next 12 months:

- support IFs in increasing representation of Women Technical Officials and Coaches to meet IOC targets
- design a training program for executives on the strategic and economic value of sport development
- collate Return On Investment information across IFs – including trends and recommendations
- establish regular communication to facilitate cross-sport collaboration and knowledge-sharing
- equip IFs on incorporating technology in development programs and resources for education

"Embracing new technologies and AI is no longer optional; it is a necessity for the International Federations to thrive across all areas, including leadership, sports development and coaching," Stefan LJUTZKANOV, Chief Product Officer Business and Development at Sport ERP, said. "These tools hold the potential to accelerate growth, improve decision-making, and foster inclusivity within our global sports community. The key lies in identifying the gaps and proactively addressing them. By leveraging AI and emerging technologies, we can enhance performance and redefine the roles of coaches, leadership, and athletes, ensuring the future of sport is both innovative and equitable."

Other sessions focused on innovations in delivering educational content to athletes and coaches, specific challenges faced by IFs in this area, IF success stories, and the certification of coach licenses to attain global recognition. Sheila Stephens DESBANS from Olympic Solidarity also joined in the Workshop to present projects and related changes for IFs in the next quadrennium.