WCL Reveals Selection Process for Pan-Am U17 and FISU Championships Under Wrestling Canada’s Oversight

Wrestling Canada Lutte Announces Updated Athlete Selection Processes for 2026 International Championships

OTTAWA – Wrestling Canada Lutte (WCL) has unveiled significant updates to its athlete selection procedures for two key international events in 2026: the Pan American Under-17 championships and the FISU World University Combat Sports Championships. These changes aim to ensure athletes are evaluated based on the most competitive and relevant performances leading up to each championship.

Pan American Under-17 Championships (April 2-4, 2026, Panama City, Panama)

The selection process for the Pan American Under-17 Championships, encompassing Women’s Wrestling (WW) and Men’s Freestyle Wrestling (FS), will now prioritize athletes’ results across a series of designated competitions. Selection will be based on an athlete’s two best results from the following events, alongside consideration of outstanding performances and head-to-head records:

* 2025 Canadian Under-17 and Cadet Championships – Edmonton, Alberta (May 2025)
* Matmen Classic – Brampton, ON (December 13-14, 2025)
* 2026 Jurassic Classic – Calgary, Alberta (January 3, 2026)
* 2026 Western canadian Age Group Championships – Richmond, BC (January 23-25, 2026)
* 2026 Eastern Canada Championships – Fredericton, NB (Febuary 1, 2026)
* Remarkable performances in other recognized competitions (2025/2026)
* Head-to-head results against competitors in the same weight class (2025/2026)

Age Requirements: Athletes must be 16 or 17 years old (born in 2009 or 2010). Fifteen-year-olds (born in 2011) may participate with parental permission and a medical certificate.

Application Process: Athletes wishing to be considered for selection must submit the following facts to kale Whitton, High Performance Manager, by February 7, 2026:

* Name
* Date of Birth
* Weight Category (UWW)
* Tournament Results

Submissions should be sent to: [email protected]

Click here to view the full team selection criteria.

**FISU World University combat Sports Championships (June 8-13, 2026, Brasilia,

What specific criteria, beyond CWRS points, will be considered during the National Trials for the pan-Am U17 Championships?

Wrestling Canada Lutte (WCL) has recently detailed its selection process for athletes aiming to represent Canada at the upcoming Pan-American U17 Wrestling Championships and the FISU (International University Sports Federation) World University Championships. This extensive outline provides clarity for aspiring wrestlers, coaches, and parents navigating the pathway to international competition. The process is designed to ensure fair and clear selection, identifying the most competitive Canadian athletes in both Greco-Roman and Freestyle wrestling.

Pan-Am U17 Wrestling Championships: Selection Criteria

The Pan-am U17 Championships, a crucial stepping stone for developing wrestling talent, will utilize a multi-stage selection process. WCL emphasizes performance consistency and competitive results throughout the qualification period.

* Qualification Period: The qualification period runs from January 1st, 2025, to April 15th, 2025. Results from designated Canada Wrestling Ranking Series (CWRS) events during this period will be heavily weighted.

* CWRS Points system: Athletes accumulate points based on their placement in CWRS events. Higher placements earn more points.A detailed breakdown of the points system is available on the Wrestling Canada Lutte website (https://wrestlingcanada.ca/).

* National Trials: Following the qualification period, a National Trial will be held to determine the final team roster. This trial will feature the top-ranked athletes in each weight category based on CWRS points.

* Carding & Eligibility: Athletes must meet Wrestling Canada’s carding requirements and be eligible to represent Canada internationally. This includes citizenship verification and adherence to anti-doping regulations.

* weight Categories: Selection will be conducted within the official weight categories as determined by united World wrestling (UWW) for the Pan-Am U17 championships.

FISU World University championships: A Pathway for Student-Athletes

The FISU World University Championships offer a unique opportunity for student-athletes to compete on the international stage. The selection process differs slightly from the U17 Championships, prioritizing both wrestling ability and academic standing.

* Eligibility Requirements: Athletes must be currently enrolled as a full-time student at a recognized post-secondary institution. Proof of enrollment is required.

* Academic standing: A minimum GPA of 68% is required for consideration. WCL emphasizes the importance of balancing athletic pursuits with academic excellence.

* National Championships Performance: Performance at the Canadian Senior or U23 Wrestling Championships (held in [City,Province] in May 2025) will be a primary factor in selection.

* International Experience: Prior international wrestling experience is viewed favorably, demonstrating an athlete’s ability to adapt to diffrent competitive environments.

* Coach Recommendations: Provincial Wrestling Associations will submit athlete recommendations to WCL, highlighting their potential and suitability for the FISU team.

The Role of Provincial Wrestling Associations

Provincial Wrestling Associations (PWAs) play a vital role in the selection process for both championships.

* Athlete Identification: PWAs are responsible for identifying and developing potential national team athletes within their respective provinces.

* CWRS Event Hosting: PWAs frequently enough host CWRS events, providing athletes with opportunities to earn ranking points.

* Advice Submissions: PWAs submit athlete recommendations to WCL, providing valuable insights into athlete performance and character.

* Supporting Documentation: PWAs assist athletes with gathering necesary documentation, such as proof of citizenship and academic transcripts.

Appealing the selection process

Wrestling Canada Lutte has established a clear appeals process for athletes who believe the selection process was unfair or inaccurate.

* Written Appeal: Athletes must submit a written appeal to the WCL Selection Committee within seven days of the team declaration.

* Supporting Evidence: The appeal must include detailed supporting evidence, outlining the grounds for the appeal.

* Review Process: The WCL selection Committee will review the appeal and make a final decision. The decision of the Selection Committee is final and binding.

Benefits of Representing Canada Internationally

competing for Canada at the Pan-Am U17 and FISU Championships offers numerous benefits for young wrestlers:

* International Exposure: Gain valuable experience competing against athletes from different countries.

* Skill Growth: Enhance wrestling skills and tactical awareness through high-level competition.

* national Recognition: Receive national recognition for athletic