USA Wrestling coach Clarissa Chun to partner with UWW for Inspire Together for Peace in Jordan

USA Wrestling National Women’s Freestyle Assistant Coach Clarissa Chun has been invited as a United World Wrestling Ambassador to be a part of a program, reaching out to Syrian Refugees in Azraq, Jordan, on July 19.

The initiative, called Inspire Together for Peace, is a joint effort with UWW and World Taekwondo/Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation. WT/THF already has an existing presence there with a facility and program to help get other sports established.

The goal of this initiative is to introduce these combat sports to the community.

“UWW is eager to assist refugees in any way that they can,” UWW Senior Manager of Media Operations. “This program allows for us to give something to focus on outside of circumstances. Values learned through wrestling are powerful life tools.”

Chun, a 2008 Olympic bronze medalist, will work alongside Arsen Julfalakyan, a 2012 Olympic silver medalist and 2014 World champion, to put on a wrestling demonstration followed by a clinic and an opportunity to get to know the refugees one-on-one.

“I'm humbled by the opportunity to introduce wrestling to the Syrian refugees of the Azraq Camp.  There are no language or cultural barriers in wrestling,” Chun said. “Discipline, confidence, perseverance, and self-defense can all be learned through wrestling, regardless of a person's place in life.  We live in a chaotic world, and the Syrian civil war has left many to live a life facing constant adversity and suffering.  I believe wrestling can offer a glimmer of hope for a better future to the refugees, as well as a means of connection to the global community.”

Leading UWW in the program is Development Director Deqa Niamkey.