Guatemala: The Perils of Street Life

Wrestling for Peace hopes to harness the power of sport, instilling hope and steering youngsters away from the perils of street life in Guatemala. At the heart of this initiative lies a simple yet powerful concept: wrestlers helping wrestlers. Through the generous donation of wrestling mats and gear, along with the invaluable support of key figures in the wrestling world, such as Francisco Lee, President of UWW-Americas, Olympic Champion Steve Fraser, and Lorraine Rorabaugh from USA Wrestling's Alumni relations, the program has gained traction, offering hope amidst the challenges of adversity.

Wrestling for Peace is not just grappling with opponents on the mat, it’s grappling with the socio-economic challenges that confront the youth in this Central American nation. Moreover, Wrestling for Peace in Guatemala serves as a platform for cultural exchange, transcending geographical boundaries and fostering bonds of friendship and understanding among individuals from diverse backgrounds. Initiatives like Wrestling for Peace underscore the universal language of sport, capable of bridging gaps and fostering mutual respect.

Through mentorship and structured training programs, young participants not only learned the technical aspects of wrestling but also essential life skills. Wrestling for Peace fosters a sense of belonging and community among its participants. In a country where opportunities for upward mobility are often limited, the support found within the wrestling community is invaluable. Wrestling for Peace is committed to the transformative power of sport in building futures and shaping destinies.