By Dan Russell
Wrestling for Peace

In 2025, USA Wrestling’s leadership and age-group World Team members demonstrated the power of sport, making a meaningful impact both on and off the mat through their partnership with Wrestling for Peace. From Europe to the Middle East, U.S. wrestlers leveraged their athletic platform to deliver humanitarian aid, mentorship, and diplomacy, showing that wrestling is about more than medals—it’s about purpose. 

Athens, Greece – U17 World Championships 

In Athens, USA Wrestling supported a week-long wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu camp for more than 80 athletes, guided by world champions. Beyond the mats, the men’s freestyle U17 World Team partnered with Team Greece to visit Elpida Children’s Hospital with toys for the children, deliver humanitarian aid, provide a year’s worth of school supplies to a Roma community, and support local centers providing 50,000 meals annually to refugees. Their engagement reinforced sport as a bridge for diplomacy, strengthening U.S.–Greek cultural ties. 

Samokov, Bulgaria – U20 World Championships 

The “Path of Glory” initiative launched during the U20 World Championships empowered young female wrestlers through programs outside the arena of the competition, led by the women’s freestyle U20 World Team and Bulgarian champions. Athletes also supported local schools with coaches and equipment and provided mentorship programs that will leave a lasting impact on the next generation. 

Tatabánya, Hungary – Veteran World Championships 

U.S. veterans competing in Tatabánya exemplified lifelong service by donating training gear, supporting Bethesda Children’s Hospital, and contributing to therapeutic programs for children in recovery. These efforts highlighted the unique role veterans play in giving back to their communities through wrestling. 

Novi Sad, Serbia – U23 World Championships 

In Serbia, U.S. wrestlers from the Greco-Roman U23 World Team visited rehabilitation centers, shared stories of resilience, and delivered toys to children in an impoverished village. These initiatives demonstrated the power of sport to connect and heal beyond the competitive arena. 

Zagreb, Croatia – Senior World Championships 

During the Senior World Championships, USA Wrestling showcased the Wrestling for Peace (W4P) model, connecting Olympic legacy, humanitarian service, and global development programs. This effort positioned U.S. wrestling as a leader in using sport for diplomacy and positive societal impact, setting the stage for Los Angeles 2028. 

Jordan – “Pinning Dreams” Sports Diplomacy Program 

The “Pinning Dreams” program in Jordan highlighted USA Wrestling’s commitment to expanding wrestling globally. U.S. athletes hosted women’s clinics, trained over 100 girls and coaches, and reinforced sport as a platform for empowerment and diplomacy. 

USA Wrestling’s leadership and athletes continue to prove that wrestling is more than competition—it’s a tool for positive change worldwide. Support from fans and partners allows the organization partnered with Wrestling for Peace to carry this mission forward, building opportunities for youth, empowering women, aiding communities, and strengthening international goodwill. 

Join USA Wrestling in making a difference—on the mat and beyond. Learn more about Wrestling for Peace at wrestlingforpeace.org