The annual EWF Youth Training Camp, hosted by the Turkiye Weightlifting Federation, concluded its week-long event in Konya (August 13-20, 2023), marking the end of a transformative experience for young athletes and coaches from across Europe.
Held at the state-of-the-art TOHM Center, the camp witnessed the participation of 39 budding athletes and 21 seasoned coaches. They collaborated intensively, sharing technical know-how, and cultural insights, and engaging in various social activities. Colin Buckley, the EWF CR&SC Chairman overseeing the camp, expressed profound gratitude for the exceptional support and venue provided by the Turkiye Weightlifting Federation. Damjan Canzek an EWF CR&SC member, shared his experience and excitement with camp participants.
Beyond rigorous training, the camp was characterized by the exchange of innovative training concepts, ideas, and best practices. Athletes, coaches, and coach educators spent seven enriching days learning, sharing, and forging new friendships.
A notable feature of the camp was an interactive presentation by Türkiye NADA, which added value to the holistic experience.
The camp was opened by EWF President, Antonio Confitti. He expressed good luck to all participants wishing them great sports results in the near future, and thanked TWF for their great hospitality. EWF President invited participants to enjoy their time at camp.
Mr. Talat Ülü, TWF President reflected on the week, saying, “I would like to thank all the countries that came to the Development camp organized by EWF. I hope they have left Konya with fond memories. We had a very productive and nice camp. I congratulate everyone who contributed,” he said.
With the curtains almost drawn on this year’s events, the EWF Youth Training Camp has once again showcased the pivotal role such platforms play in nurturing the future torchbearers of European weightlifting. EWF expresses great thank you to all participants, TWF, Kyle Pierce, IWF CRC member, for conducting IWF/EWF coach seminar, and to Colin Buckley and Damjan Canzek, EWF officials, for their dedicated and selfless work.
In November 2023, the EWF will invite member federations to submit an expression of interest to host the 2024 Youth Training Camp.
