IIS Signs MoU with UWW to Boost Development of Wrestling in India

By
Teja Devathoti
-
13
UWW

In a landmark move to elevate the sport of wrestling in India, the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with United World Wrestling (UWW), the global governing body for wrestling. 

This strategic partnership formalized during the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, aims to foster collaboration and enhance the development of wrestling in India through various initiatives and programs.

The Significance of the MoU

The MoU between IIS and UWW is a significant step towards creating a robust framework for the development of wrestling in India. The agreement was signed at UWW’s hospitality venue, the Wrestling House, located on a boat near the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris. This partnership reflects the commitment of both organizations to support elite and pre-elite wrestling athletes, as well as suitably qualified coaches in India.

Objectives of the Partnership

The primary objectives of the MoU include:

  • Talent Identification and Development: Establishing programs to identify and nurture young wrestling talents across India.
  • Coaching and Training: Enhancing the quality of coaching through specialized training programs and workshops.
  • Infrastructure Development: Improving wrestling facilities and infrastructure to meet international standards.
  • International Exposure: Providing Indian wrestlers with opportunities to compete in international tournaments and training camps.

IIS’s Role in Indian Wrestling

The Inspire Institute of Sport, based in Vijayanagar, Karnataka, operates a state-of-the-art high-performance training centre that meets international standards. The institute has been instrumental in promoting Olympic sports in India, with a particular focus on wrestling. Notable wrestlers like Olympic bronze medalists Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik have been associated with IIS. Recently, IIS trainees Antim Panghal and Nisha Dahiya, both World Championships bronze medalists, competed at the Paris Olympics.

UWW’s Commitment to Wrestling Development

United World Wrestling’s involvement in this partnership is part of its broader strategic global development plan, which aims to elevate the sport of wrestling worldwide. UWW’s support is expected to enhance India’s wrestling programs, focusing on the upcoming Olympics in 2028 and 2032. The collaboration with IIS is seen as a crucial step in achieving these goals.

Parth Jindal, Founder of IIS, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to have signed an MoU with United World Wrestling that’s aimed at furthering the progress India has made in the sport. Historically, India has produced some of the best wrestlers worldwide, and the support from UWW will take our programs to the next level.”

Upcoming Initiatives

As part of the MoU, several initiatives are planned to boost the development of wrestling in India:

  • Grassroots Programs: Launching grassroots programs to introduce wrestling to young athletes and encourage participation at the school and community levels.
  • Elite Training Camps: Organizing elite training camps with international coaches to provide advanced training to top Indian wrestlers.
  • Competitions and Tournaments: Hosting national and international wrestling competitions in India to provide exposure and competitive experience to Indian wrestlers.

Impact on Indian Wrestling

The partnership between IIS and UWW is expected to have a profound impact on the development of wrestling in India. By providing young wrestlers with access to world-class training facilities, coaching, and international exposure, the MoU aims to create a pipeline of talented athletes who can compete at the highest levels. The focus on grassroots development will also ensure a steady flow of talent, securing the future of wrestling in India.

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