Development

Wrestling completes tree-planting initiative in Casablanca

By United World Wrestling Press

CASABLANCA, Morocco (June 30) --- A tree-planting initiative was organized in Casablanca in partnership with local authorities. This initiative aimed to raise participants’ awareness of the environmental emergency and the role of sport in combating climate change.

“Planting a tree is sowing a promise. Today, we plant for tomorrow, just as we train today for tomorrow’s medals,” said Assad Ouassama a young Moroccan wrestler participating in the camp, with emotion.

An educational session on environmental protection in sport also took place on April 25, continuing eco-responsible momentum.

A Fraternal Atmosphere and a Family Spirit

Beyond the technical and educational aspects, this camp provided many athletes with the opportunity to build lasting bonds with their fellow African counterparts.

“I leave not only stronger, but with lifelong friends. Camps like this strengthen our continental identity and spirit of unity,” emphasized Rahman Sesay ABDUL, a Sierra Leonean coach attending the training camp.

The warm atmosphere and high-quality exchanges confirmed the value of this holistic approach to sports training.

Toward a New Model of Sports Organization in Africa

By combining sporting excellence with educational values and social engagement, United World Wrestling is promoting an innovative model for competitions across the African continent.

“Casablanca 2025 is not just a competition; it’s a turning point. By integrating these educational dimensions, we are building a sustainable ecosystem for wrestling in Africa,” concluded Fouad Meskout, President of UWW Africa.

A Lasting Legacy for Casablanca and Africa

As the African Championships opened in an atmosphere of commitment and unity, the training camp organized by UWW stood out as a model to follow. It demonstrated that athletic performance can -- and should -- be paired with social and environmental consciousness.

Teresa Mayo Wins United World Wrestling's 'Women and Sport Award' for 2020

By United World Wrestling Press

CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (April 16) -- Teresa MAYO (ESP), former wrestler and current grassroots activist for the sport of wrestling in Spain, has been named the United World Wrestling "Women and Sport Award" winner for 2020.

Mayo wrestled internationally from 2001 to 2013 and currently works in the development department for the Spanish Wrestling Federation with an aim to develop scholastic programs and create a system where athletes graduate from grassroots competitions to elite international events.

She is also improving gender equality at the local level through the promotion of women’s wrestling within the federation and with partners.

"I am really thankful to the wrestling family for this award," said Mayo. "I assure you that it will highly contribute to the work we have started here in Spain to empower and improve women's wrestling."


Mayo has even won support from the Spanish government. She was recently awarded her home nation's “Women and Sport” recognition and financial contribution, which will be directed towards supporting more female national coaches. 

Mayo also attended the recent edition of the Women in Wrestling Global Forum hosted by United World Wrestling in Istanbul.