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Meet WAKO’s Athletes’ Committee, dedicated to representing the voice of athletes, promoting their well-being, and driving positive change in kickboxing. Athletes’ Committee WAKO’s mission is to place the Athletes at the heart of the Sport of Kickboxing. We are the Athletes’ Committee (WAKO AC) that serves as a link between the most important unit of the organization, the Athletes and WAKO. We make sure that the Kickboxers’ voices are heard and taking into proper consideration. Our motto is “ATHLETES FIRST” as without the athletes, there would be no need for sports organizations at all. Our mission is to ▪ Support and protect clean and fair sport ▪ Empower and ensure Athlete representation in the WAKO decision-making processes ▪ Support Athlete development in their sporting and non-sporting careers (Dual Career) ▪ Provide advices to the WAKO Board of Directors and maintain close cooperation with the WAKO Committees ▪ Ensure direct communication between the Athletes and WAKO ▪ Maintain a link with the IOC Athletes’ Commission ▪ Engage in relevant athlete-related projects If you are an Athlete, you can directly contact your country’s WAKO National Federation for more information on the national athletes’ committee or feel free to contact us for general guidance regarding athlete related issues on ATHLETESCOMMITTEE@WAKO.SPORT #HearYourVoice #WAKOkickboxing #WAKOAC #ATHLETESFIRST Useful links Athlete365 Discover the official community for elite Athletes and Olympians & download the APP IOC Athletes’ Commission WADA Discover the website of the World Ani-Doping Agency & download the APP WAKO Committees Check out the Members of the WAKO AC WAKO Rules Including the WAKO Anti Doping Rules & Equipment Book WAKO Policies Including the WAKO Guidelines Athletes Committee

Discover WAKO’s mission, history, and global impact as the leading organization for the sport of kickboxing worldwide. Historic Overview: The Story of WAKO WAKO's history is deeply intertwined with the evolution of kickboxing in the Western world. It all began in 1970 when the legendary Joe Lewis had what is now recognized as the first "kickboxing fight" against Greg Baines in the USA. This was a groundbreaking event—the first time boxing gloves were used, and the term "kickboxing" was mentioned. The sport gained further momentum in 1974 with the inaugural "World Championship in Full Contact" held in Los Angeles. Organized by pioneers Joe Lewis and Mike Anderson, it was a landmark moment for the sport. Kickboxing legends Bill Wallace, Jeff Smith, and Joe Lewis emerged as the first Full Contact World Champions. Building a strong and lasting world organization for kickboxing was a challenging task amidst the dynamic martial arts scene of the time. George Brueckner and Mike Anderson had the vision to create a global platform for the sport, leading to the formation of the "World All-Style Karate Organization," soon to be known as WAKO. WAKO's journey in Europe began in 1976, and the organization was officially founded in Berlin, Germany, on February 26th, 1977, by Mr. Georg Brueckner. The first-ever World Championships in semi and full-contact karate, as it was then called, took place in 1978, featuring 110 competitors from 18 countries. WAKO quickly established official rules and regulations, incorporating hand and leg techniques for amateur fights with a focus on safety. This marked the official adoption of the term "kickboxing," with WAKO positioning itself as the world’s authentic Kickboxing Federation. From 1984 to 2013, WAKO was led by Mr. Ennio Falsoni of Italy. Under his leadership, WAKO solidified its reputation as a respected international sports organization, hosting World Championships every two years across different continents. After decades of dedication, Mr. Falsoni now serves as WAKO’s Honorary President. For those interested in a deeper dive into WAKO's history, his book, "KICKBOXING: The Phenomenology of a SPORT," provides a comprehensive account. (To obtain a copy, contact WAKO HQ at administration@wako.sport or call +39 345 0135521.) Following an acting presidency from 2013 to 2015, Prof. Borislav Pelević of Serbia was elected WAKO President in November 2015 in Dublin, Ireland. Sadly, Prof. Pelević passed away in October 2018. The WAKO Board of Directors then appointed Mrs. Francesca Falsoni, Chairwoman of the WAKO Legal Committee, as Interim President in November 2018. Her leadership guided WAKO through an Extraordinary General Assembly, culminating in the election of Mr. Roy Baker of Ireland as WAKO President on February 2nd, 2019, in Milan, Italy. WAKO Kickboxing Today Kickboxing is a modern combat sport rooted in various traditional martial arts. As a distinct Western response to Eastern martial arts, kickboxing can be practiced both competitively and recreationally, promoting health, strength, and endurance. Today, WAKO proudly represents 130 affiliated nations across five continents, with 105 of these nations officially recognized by their National Olympic Committees or relevant government sports authorities.

Learn about Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUE) and WAKO’s commitment to clean sport. Access guidelines and application details. Therapeutic Use Exemptions (Tue) What Is A Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE)? Athletes may have illnesses or conditions that require them to take medications or undergo procedures. If the medication or method an athlete is required to use to treat an illness or condition is prohibited as per the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) Prohibited List, a TUE may give that athlete the authorization to use that substance or method while competing without invoking an anti-doping rule violation (ADRV) and applicable sanction. Applications for TUEs are evaluated by a panel of physicians, the TUE Committee (TUEC). What are the Criteria for Granting a TUE? All of the four following criteria must be met (for more details, please refer to the WADA International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemptions (ISTUE) Article 4.2): The athlete has a clear diagnosed medical condition which requires treatment using a prohibited substance or method. The therapeutic use of the substance will not, on the balance of probabilities, produce significant enhancement of performance beyond the athlete’s normal state of health. The prohibited substance or method is an indicated treatment for the medical condition, and there is no reasonable permitted therapeutic alternative. The necessity to use that substance or method is not a consequence of the prior use (without a TUE), of a substance or method which was prohibited at the time of use. Who Should Apply for a TUE? Where and When to Apply? Athletes who are subject to anti-doping rules would need a TUE to take a prohibited substance or use a prohibited method. You should verify with WAKO to know to whom you need to apply and if you can apply retroactively. First, check if the required medication or method you intend to take or use is prohibited as per the WADA Prohibited List. You may also use a ‘check your medication’ online tool or ask your NADO if it has one. You have a responsibility to inform your physician(s) that you are an Athlete bound to anti-doping rules. You and your physician(s) should check the Prohibited List for the substance/method you are prescribed. If the substance/method is prohibited, discuss non-prohibited alternatives. If there are none, apply for a TUE. Remember, Athletes have the ultimate responsibility. Contact your NADO or WAKO if you are having difficulties. Then, contact WAKO Antidoping Officer at gianlorenzo.daniele@yahoo.it to determine your competition level and TUE application requirements. If It Is Determined That You Are an International-Level Athlete: WAKO Definition of International-Level Athlete is as follows: An Athlete who is National Champion in that given year and subsequent years where he/she is the official national Champion as recognized by the WAKO National Governing Body. An Athlete who has competed in a WAKO World Cup, or A/B class event in the last two years as defined in the WAKO Calendar. You must apply to WAKO in advance, as soon as the need arises, unless there are emergency or exceptional circumstances. For substances prohibited in-competition only, you should apply for a TUE at least 30 days before your next competition unless one of the exceptions on retroactive TUEs (see below) applies. If You Already Have a TUE Granted by Your National Anti-Doping Organization (NADO): National-level athletes must apply for a TUE to the NADO of their home country. WAKO will automatically recognize any TUE granted by any NADO declared compliant by WADA, in accordance with Article 7.1 (a) of the World Anti-Doping Code. Can I Get a Retroactive TUE? You may only apply retroactively for a TUE to WAKO if: You required emergency or urgent treatment of a medical condition. There was insufficient time, opportunity, or other exceptional circumstances that prevented you from submitting the TUE application, or having it evaluated, before getting tested. You are a lower-level athlete who is not under the jurisdiction of WAKO or NADO and were tested. You tested positive after using a substance Out-of-Competition that is only prohibited In-Competition (e.g., glucocorticoids). How to Apply to WAKO for a TUE? WAKO encourages submitting TUE applications via ADAMS, together with the required medical information. If you do not have an ADAMS account yet, please contact gianlorenzo.daniele@yahoo.it to have it set up. What Happens at Major Events? A Major Event Organization (MEO) requires athletes to apply for the recognition of their TUE if they wish to use a prohibited substance or method in connection with the Event. Will My Medical Information Be Treated in a Confidential Manner? All the information contained in a TUE application, including the supporting medical information and any other information related to the evaluation of your TUE request, is kept strictly confidential and treated in accordance with the Athlete’s Declaration contained in the ADAMS TUE process and the WAKO TUE Application Form. Contact Information For any further information and questions in relation to WAKO’s personal information practices, please contact WAKO’s Data Protection Officer at v.cocca@crclex.com . If you have doubts about which organization you should apply for a TUE or the recognition process, or any other questions about TUEs, please contact WAKO Antidoping Officer at gianlorenzo.daniele@yahoo.it .

Explore remote and global career opportunities with WAKO, the IOC-recognized kickboxing federation. Join us in shaping the future of combat sports worldwide. Jobs vacancies Part-Time Office and Marketing Administrator (Remote) – Brand Support & Development** **Role Profile: Part-Time Office and Marketing Administrator (Remote) – Brand Support & Development** Position Title: Office and Marketing Administrator (Part-Time, 2-3 days/week) Location: Remote or hybrid Duration: 2-year Fixed Term Contract Reporting To: WAKO Office Manager - President of WAKO (World Association of Kickboxing Organizations) **Overview:** WAKO is a renowned global sport organization recognized by the IOC, dedicated to promoting and developing kickboxing worldwide. We are seeking a proactive, detail-oriented Office and marketing Administrator with a passion for brand development and support. This part-time role offers a unique opportunity for a graduate in Sports management, brand management or marketing to gain invaluable experience within a prestigious international IOC recognised global organization, contributing to our global growth and brand presence. **Main Responsibilities:** - Provide efficient administrative support remotely, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. - Assist in brand support and development activities, including coordinating campaigns, managing mass communication, and supporting promotional initiatives. - Maintain and update contact databases using modern contact management software. ( Contact Manager ) - Draft, review, and proofread correspondence, reports, and promotional content in clear, professional English. - Manage Marketing and Brand schedules, meetings, and communication with internal teams and external stakeholders. - Support WAKO Media team, social media and digital branding efforts as required. Ensure collaboration and consolidation of activities - Track and report on branding projects, surveys and campaigns. - Ensure confidentiality and data protection standards are maintained at all times. **Key Requirements:** - Proven experience in using modern contact database software (COntact Manager - HubSpot, or similar). - Exceptional written and spoken English language skills; meticulous attention to detail. - Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to work independently. - Familiarity with digital communication platforms, social media, and Brand, marketing concepts. - Demonstrated professionalism and adaptability in a remote work environment. - Adequate home-office setup with reliable internet connection. **Desirable Attributes:** - Recent graduate in brand management, marketing, communications, or Sports administration and related field. - Interest or experience within the sports industry, especially within international or Olympic-affiliated organizations. - interest and experience in the Combat sports industry Ability to support a dynamic, evolving brand development and marketing strategy on a global scale. **We Offer:** - A fair, Salary consummated with experience and role. - An engaging role within a prestigious global IOC recognised sports organization. - Flexible part-time working arrangements. That will ensure flexibility for you and your family. - Opportunity to gain experience and build a global network within the international sports community. - Supportive team environment with exposure to our Media team, brand and marketing functions at a high level. **Application Process:** Application period is open for fourteen days from 29th of May to the 12th June. Successfully applications will be contacted by return mail within 5 working days. Interested candidates should submit a CV and cover letter outlining their suitability for the role and motivation for working with WAKO to president@wako.sport

Celebrate WAKO’s sponsors who support athletes, events, and initiatives worldwide. Join us in recognizing the partners championing the growth of kickboxing. Sponsors Championing the Future of Kickboxing WAKO is proud to partner with leading organizations that share our vision of excellence, inclusivity, and global growth in kickboxing. Our sponsors play a vital role in supporting athletes, events, and initiatives that drive the sport forward, empowering the next generation of champions. Through their commitment and collaboration, WAKO continues to expand its reach, enhance its programs, and deliver world-class events that inspire and unite the global kickboxing community. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors for their unwavering support and belief in the power of kickboxing. Explore our trusted partners below and join us in celebrating those who make it all possible.

Explore WAKO’s Media Hub for the latest kickboxing videos, photos, and articles. Stay connected with highlights from events and stories worldwide. Visit our Official Youtube Channel for more PHOTOS Visit our Official Flickr Channel for more Social Links WAKO FAQ's Heading 6 WAKO.rsportz.com Social Links WAKO.rsportz.com WAKO FAQ's World Games 2025 winners

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