#UWWLIVE

UWW LIVE: Helen Maroulis (USA), Rio Olympic Champion

By United World Wrestling Press

In 2016, Helen MAROULIS (USA) became the first American woman to claim an Olympic gold medal in wrestling by defeating three-time Olympic champion Saori YOSHIDA (JPN) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Maroulis has also won two world titles along with world silver and bronze medals. She returned to competition in 2020 and now has her sights set on the Tokyo Olympics.

Maroulis joined Eric Olanowski to talk about her history-making Olympic gold medal run in Rio and her quest at becoming the third woman to claim two Olympic gold medals. She also gave her thoughts on America's chances at dethroning the Japanese women at the Tokyo Olympic Games.
 

#development

Learn, Wrestle, Use youth camp organized in Croatia

By United World Wrestling Press

POREC, Croatia (May 6) -- The Croatian Wrestling Federation, in cooperation with United World Wrestling and the Croatian School Sports Federation, successfully organized an international youth wrestling camp titled “Learn, Wrestle, Use”, held from April 14 to 19, 2025, in the renowned wrestling hub of sunny Porec.

The camp brought together 300 young athletes from four European countries -- Croatia, Czech Republic, Austria, and Germany -- in the U13, U15 and U17 age groups. In addition to intensive wrestling training, the camp included targeted educational sessions of learning English, proper nutrition, and digital safety, particularly regarding responsible behavior on social media.

This innovative project stands out for its integrated approach, combining athletic preparation with personal development. Through a balance of physical training and structured education, “Learn, Wrestle, Use” supports the holistic — both physical and psychological — development of young athletes. It encourages not only sporting excellence, but also intercultural exchange, communication skills, and lifelong healthy habits.

The camp was led by a team of distinguished Croatian coaches: Hrvoje SAVUK (U13 Boys Group), Eugen JAKOVLJEVIC, head coach of the Croatian U15 boys national team (U15 & U17 Boys Groups), and Women’s Wrestling national team coaches Dinko KREMIC and Nenad GREZINA (Girls Group). A total of 30 experienced coaches participated in the delivery of the training and educational components.

This international initiative is a strong example of how youth sport can go beyond competition — creating space for learning, connection, and empowerment across borders.