Asunción, Agencia IP.- The International Gymnastics Federation has selected the Paraguayan Gymnastics Federation (FPG) (FIG) to host the only Fundamental Gymnastics international course in Spanish this year. This historic event marks a major milestone for the country, reflecting Paraguay’s steady growth in gymnastics and positioning it as a regional benchmark for training and development in the sport.
The announcement was made by Paula Espínola, president of the FPG, during an interview on the program Tribuna, broadcast by Paraguay TV. She emphasized the importance of this opportunity: «This course is essential because it’s the first step within FIG academies and gives coaches the certification to work anywhere in the gymnastics world,» she explained.
The training, scheduled to begin the week of April 21, is aimed at coaches and will be conducted by international experts. Thanks to the efforts of the FPG, Paraguay has secured additional slots for local participants, allowing for broader access and enhanced technical training.
Progress and sporting legacy
FIG chose Paraguay due to its significant progress in the sport and the quality of its infrastructure. Following the South American Games (Asu 2022), Paraguay’s gymnastics pavilion became one of South America’s most modern and continues hosting top-level international events.
The Federation is also preparing to host the Pan American Rhythmic Gymnastics Tournament, which will take place in May. This event will serve as a qualifier for both the World Championships in Rio de Janeiro and the Central American Games and will feature both youth and adult competitions.
At the same time, Paraguay’s gymnastics community is celebrating the confirmation of three athlete spots for the Junior Pan American Games set for August. Ana Mendieta, a standout gymnast, will represent Paraguay in women’s artistic and rhythmic gymnastics; Paraguay will compete in individual and group youth categories.
Comprehensive training and future outlook
In another national milestone, Paraguay now boasts three international judges in rhythmic gymnastics for the first time. Additionally, the Federation is conducting national training programs to help more professionals obtain or renew their FIG brevet licenses in line with the new international scoring code.
Espínola emphasized that technical development and education are core priorities of the current leadership: «We are working to strengthen the foundation by training coaches and judges. This will result in better representatives and greater achievements for Paraguay in the future.»
She also highlighted the importance of gymnastics as a formative sport that contributes to motor development, coordination, and discipline from an early age—skills that benefit athletes across all sports.
Inclusion and growth
Paraguay is also strongly committed to inclusion, working closely with Special Olympics. National team coaches actively support the training of athletes with disabilities, who have already earned multiple medals in international competitions.
The Federation continues to expand its reach through free sports schools, in partnership with the National Sports Secretariat (SND), offering classes from beginner to advanced levels, Monday through Saturday.
«Often, the biggest cost is traveling to receive training. By hosting the course, we remove that barrier for our coaches. This opportunity not only improves technical quality in the country but also lays the foundation for future medals and achievements,» concluded Espínola.
Through these efforts, Paraguay is solidifying its place on the international gymnastics map and taking firm steps toward continental growth with a strong, inclusive, professional foundation.