The Heart of Wrestling: Uniting Athletes for Humanity in 2025
In 2025, USA Wrestling’s leadership and age-group World Team members showcased the profound impact of sport through their partnership with Wrestling for Peace. From Europe to the Middle East, U.S. wrestlers employed their athletic platform to provide humanitarian aid, mentorship, and diplomacy, illustrating that wrestling transcends mere medals—it embodies a greater purpose.
Athens, Greece – U17 World Championships
In Athens, USA Wrestling supported a week-long wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu camp for over 80 young athletes, led by world champions. The energy didn’t stop on the mats. The men’s freestyle U17 World Team collaborated with Team Greece to visit Elpida Children’s Hospital, bringing toys and joy to young patients. They also delivered humanitarian aid and a year’s worth of school supplies to a local Roma community. Their outreach extended to supporting local centers that provide 50,000 meals annually to refugees. Such initiatives reinforced sport as a bridge for diplomacy, enhancing U.S.–Greek cultural ties.
Samokov, Bulgaria – U20 World Championships
The “Path of Glory” initiative debuted during the U20 World Championships, empowering young female wrestlers through programs beyond the competitive realm. Led by the women’s freestyle U20 World Team and Bulgarian champions, female athletes engaged in support for local schools by providing coaching and equipment. Mentorship programs were introduced, leaving a lasting impression on the next generation of female wrestlers who aspire to excel in the sport and beyond.
Tatabánya, Hungary – Veteran World Championships
U.S. veterans showcased their commitment to community service during the Veteran World Championships in Tatabánya. They donated training gear, offered support to Bethesda Children’s Hospital, and contributed to therapeutic programs for children in recovery. This highlighted the unique role that veterans play in giving back through wrestling, demonstrating their lifelong dedication to service, mentorship, and healing.
Novi Sad, Serbia – U23 World Championships
In Serbia, U.S. wrestlers from the Greco-Roman U23 World Team took the initiative to visit rehabilitation centers, sharing inspiring stories of resilience while delivering toys to children in an impoverished village. These heartfelt actions illustrated how sport can create connections and foster healing, proving that wrestling extends far beyond competition to become a medium for social responsibility and compassion.
Zagreb, Croatia – Senior World Championships
During the Senior World Championships, USA Wrestling showcased the Wrestling for Peace (W4P) model, intertwining Olympic legacy with humanitarian service and global development initiatives. This effort highlighted U.S. wrestling’s leadership in using sport as a platform for diplomacy and societal growth. Such endeavors pave the way for preparation leading up to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, emphasizing the importance of social impact alongside athletic excellence.
Jordan – “Pinning Dreams” Sports Diplomacy Program
The “Pinning Dreams” program in Jordan illustrated USA Wrestling’s commitment to expanding the sport’s reach globally. U.S. athletes hosted clinics specifically for women, training over 100 girls and coaches to promote empowerment through sport. This initiative reinforced wrestling’s role as a platform for international diplomacy, showcasing the power of athletics in reshaping lives and communities.
USA Wrestling’s leadership and athletes are proof that wrestling is much more than competition; it is a catalyst for positive change around the globe. With the support of fans and partners, the organization, in collaboration with Wrestling for Peace, continues to further this mission of building opportunities for youth, empowering women, aiding communities, and fostering goodwill internationally.
To engage more deeply, visit wrestlingforpeace.org and explore ways to support this impactful movement in sports and humanity.