Quarterly update #8 - Breaking barriers on and off the mat

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STRATEGY 2022-2026

UPDATE FOR NATIONAL

FEDERATIONS

OCTOBER 6, 2023

BREAKING BARRIERS ON & OFF

THE MAT

Recently, I was able to be in Paris to address the Women in Wrestling Global Forum.

The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm and a shared commitment to advancing our sport. United World Wrestling remains steadfast in its mission to push boundaries and pave the way for a more inclusive future for wrestling.

The discussions in Paris reaffirmed our dedication to promoting gender equality, empowering women in wrestling, and fostering an environment where every athlete, regardless of gender, feels valued and supported.

Women's wrestling is one of the five pillars outlined in our Strategic Plan 2022-2026. However, it is a crucial one that has a profound impact across all areas of our sport. As we move forward, let us continue to unite in our efforts, breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for all to thrive within the wrestling community. Together, we can build a more diverse and inclusive future that exemplifies the true spirit of our beloved sport.

I wish you all the best for the end of what has been another momentous year for Wrestling, and a strong start to the Olympic year 2024.

Yours in Wrestling,

Nenad Lalovic

United World Wrestling President

1. ELEVATE & INSPIRE

YOUTH ENGAGEMENT

Austrian Wrestling camp with Olympic spark

The Austrian National Wrestling Center recently hosted a groundbreaking U14/U15 girls wrestling camp, marking a strong initiative focused on both youth engagement and women wrestling. Notably, German Olympic champion Aline Rotter-Focken played a pivotal role, serving as a role model for the young athletes. Her presence elevated the experience, fostering enthusiasm among the girls who actively engaged in workshops, discussions about her life and career, and even got the chance to see her Olympic gold medal.

This initiative, a first for the Austrian Wrestling Federation in the U14/U15 age group, proved to be a resounding success. Looking ahead, the federation plans to organize several more training camps, solidifying its commitment to inspire and engage youth in wrestling.

2. ENHANCE & EMPOWER

WOMEN'S WRESTLING

Highlights from UWW Women in Wrestling Global Forum 2023

In early December, the UWW Women in Wrestling Global Forum 2023 took place in Paris. It was three days packed with empowerment and success. Aligned with the Strategic Plan 2022-2026's goal of enhancing and empowering women's wrestling, the event brought leaders together to push for progress in the sport. From the opening ceremony's strong commitments to the final day's discussions on leadership and online presence, participants wrapped up their journey feeling inspired and ready to tackle challenges. The forum marks the start of a new era for women in wrestling, filled with accomplishment and a shared commitment to breaking barriers.

3. SUPPORT & CONNECT

ASSOCIATED STYLES

Beach Wrestling World Series surges with 30% rise in participation

The Beach Wrestling World Series wrapped up its 2023 edition in Turkey, showcasing a remarkable 30% increase in participation. The series, spanning three continents, experienced a doubling of participating nations, with over 50 countries from five continents taking part. Led by President Pedro Silva, the Beach Wrestling Committee highlighted the continuous global growth and development of Beach Wrestling.

The success of the 2023 World Series, particularly in Turkey, reflected the discipline's growing dedication and optimism for the future, with strong support from National Federations.

4. REVAMP & REINFORCE

IMAGE OF WRESTLING

UWW & UNAOC unite for #OneHumanity

In a powerful collaboration, United World Wrestling (UWW) and the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) are joining forces to support the #OneHumanity campaign, reinforcing UWW's global image. Leveraging wrestling's global reach, the partnership aims to promote social inclusion, intercultural dialogue, and peace-building efforts worldwide.

Aligned with UWW's commitment to inclusivity, the #OneHumanity campaign focuses on shared values of respect, inclusion, and equality. By engaging wrestling communities globally, UWW and UNAOC aspire to inspire positive change within the sport and beyond, demonstrating their shared dedication to using sports for social good.

5. EMBRACE & FOSTER

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Wrestling achieves 443% engagement surge with UWW+ debut at World Championships

A staggering 443% surge in engagement during the UWW World Championships was achieved in Belgrade, Serbia, propelled by the debut of the upgraded digital portfolio, including the UWW+ over-the-top (OTT) service.

This success aligns with UWW's emphasis on digital transformation and offers a personalized fan experience, resulting in a 63% increase in digital reach to 296 million and attracting over 404,000 new followers. The UWW+ streaming platform, integrated into UWW's website and mobile app, represents a pivotal step in the federation's strategic plan for 2022-2026.

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strategy@uww.org

Strategic Plan 2022-2026