IOA, WFI to provide extensive support to Olympic-bound wrestlers, Vinesh’s request accepted – MASHAHER

Indian Olympic Association will provide “extensive support” to the six Olympics-bound wrestlers, with the national Olympic committee and Wrestling Federation of India also accepting ace grappler Vinesh Phogat’s request for additional support to aid her training.

Six Indian grapplers — Vinesh Phogat (50kg), Antim Panghal (53kg), Anshu Malik (57kg), Nisha Dahiya (68kg) and Reetika Hooda (76kg) in women’s section and Aman Sehrawat (57kg) in men’s — have qualified for Paris.

IOA president PT Usha said in a statement on Monday the aim of the exercise is to ensure peak performance of the wrestlers.

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“By providing on extensive support team, we aim to ensure that our wrestlers have access to the best resources, enabling their peak performance. This decision aligns with our commitment to foster an environment where athletes can thrive,” said Usha.

IOA and WFI are planning a support team for wrestlers that will include coaches, physiotherapists, nutritionists, mental-conditioning coaches, and other essential staff in the days leading up to the Olympics.

Wrestling Federation of India president Sanjay Singh said more support staff will be provided to Asian Games gold medallist Vinesh for her Paris training.

“We will ensure that Vinesh and all our wrestlers receive the necessary support to excel and keep India’s flag flying,” he said.

“This initiative is part of the larger mission of the IOA and WFI to continuously improve the training, preparation, and overall support mechanisms available to all Indian athletes. The goal is to create a sustainable model of excellence that can propel Indians to greater heights on the global stage,” the IOA statement added.