The 2025 EWF Youth Training Camp has successfully concluded in Madrid following a productive week of daily training sessions held from July 13 to 20, 2025. The camp brought together 74 young athletes and coaches from 15 countries across Europe.
The training sessions, workshops, and discussions were led by Jesmond Caruana, EWF Vice President and Chair of the EWF Coaching Research & Scientific Committee; Yong Xie from the Chinese Weightlifting Federation; and Dr. Marcos Soriano of the Spanish Weightlifting Federation. Their expertise and guidance provided participants with invaluable experience and insight into high-performance training.
Participants had the opportunity to train daily with internationally recognized experts in the field. In addition to the intensive training schedule, the camp also offered a cultural component, including a visit to the iconic Real Madrid Stadium — one of the most prominent sports venues in the world.
A highlight of the camp was the participation of Mr. Yong Xie, a renowned national-level coach from the Chinese Weightlifting Association, who attended upon special invitation by EWF President Dr. Astrit Hasani.
Mr. Xie holds a Master’s degree in Physical Education from Beijing Sport University, where he currently serves as a coach. His previous roles include coaching for the Chinese National Weightlifting Team and serving as a strength and conditioning coach for China’s national rowing and canoeing teams.
Reflecting on the camp’s success, Jesmond Caruana stated: “The atmosphere at the training facility was incredible, with all athletes giving 100% effort to improve their performance. The athletes and coaches had the privilege of working with Chinese coach Yong Xie, who played a key role in helping athletes refine their technique and address weaknesses. Marcos Soriano, meanwhile, provided vital support by conducting performance tests and delivering a seminar focused on athlete development and performance.”
EWF President Dr. Astrit Hasani also expressed his satisfaction with the outcomes of the camp: “The presence of renowned Chinese national coach Yong Xie at our youth training camp in Madrid marked a major milestone in the development of European weightlifting. His involvement was met with great enthusiasm by both athletes and coaches across the continent. I’m especially grateful to Chinese Weightlifting Federation President, my Friend, Chengliang Liu, who, despite the intense preparations for the Southeast Asian Games, honored his commitment to support our efforts by sending one of China’s very best coaches to Europe. But this is only the beginning because if Europe aims to compete with the best, we must continue learning from the best! “
The EWF is grateful to all participating athletes, coaches, and national federations for their devotion and unwavering commitment to weightlifting development and international friendship.