Senegal's Minister of Youth and Sports, Djirèye Clotilde Coly, has visited the country's national teams of athletics, beach-volley, and beach wrestling ahead of the 2026 Youth Olympics in Dakar. The visit aimed to assess the teams' preparation and encourage them to strive for medals. At the Léopold Sédar Senghor stadium, Coly attended a training session and met with athletes and coaches to discuss their preparation conditions.
During her visit, Coly praised the efforts made by the athletes and urged them to continue working with rigor, discipline, and determination. She reminded them that they are ambassadors of Senegal and should defend the national colors with a spirit of fair-play and hospitality. The minister's visit also included a stop at the Arène nationale, where she met with the beach wrestling team and the president of the Senegalese Wrestling Federation, Bira Sène.
Coly commended the initiatives of the Senegalese Wrestling Federation to develop partnerships and strengthen support for the discipline. She emphasized that high-level performance requires attention to detail and encouraged the wrestlers to maintain high standards to achieve their objectives. Some team members, currently training in France, were expected to return that evening to continue their preparation.
Significant resources have been mobilized since 2025 to support young athletes in preparation for the Youth Olympics. Coly stressed that this investment must yield results, particularly in terms of medals. She highlighted the passion, determination, and desire of the athletes to make Senegal shine. The minister's expectations are high, and she believes that the country's investment in the athletes will pay off.
As the first edition of the Youth Olympics in Africa approaches, the Ministry of Youth and Sports intends to maintain close monitoring of the national teams to ensure they are well-prepared for the competition. This will enable them to perform at their best and proudly represent Senegal. The minister's visit demonstrates the government's commitment to supporting the country's athletes.
The 2026 Youth Olympics in Dakar will feature various sports, including athletics, beach-volley, and beach wrestling. Senegal is investing heavily in its athletes, and Coly's visit is part of the government's efforts to ensure their success. The country's athletes are eager to make a good impression on the international stage.
With the Youth Olympics just weeks away, Senegal's national teams are intensifying their preparations. The government's support and the athletes' determination are crucial factors in their quest for medals. The country's sports fans are eagerly awaiting the competition, and Coly's visit has boosted the athletes' morale.
Key points
- The Senegalese government has invested significant resources in the country's athletes ahead of the 2026 Youth Olympics.
- Minister Djirèye Clotilde Coly has emphasized the importance of discipline, rigor, and determination for the athletes.
- The 2026 Youth Olympics will be the first edition of the event to be held in Africa.
