Future physiotherapists to work with national teams

October 15, 2026

The Azerbaijan Wrestling Federation (AWF) and the Azerbaijan Sport Academy (ASA) have launched a recruitment process for third- and fourth-year physiotherapy students as part of a memorandum signed between the two institutions. This joint programme, the first of its kind in the country, will enable students to apply their theoretical knowledge in practice and gain hands-on experience in sports physiotherapy.

On October 14, a meeting was held at the AWF with candidates who had applied to participate in the programme. The meeting was attended by Aydan Mammadhasanova, Deputy Secretary General of the AWF, and Tahmaz Latifov, Coordinator for Medical and General Physical Preparation; Ahu Mujgan Muradova, Dean of the Faculty of Health and Management at the ASA; Konul Mammadova, Head of the Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sports; and Rauf Aliyev, Director of the Sports Medicine Research Laboratory. During the meeting, students were briefed on their upcoming activities, roles and responsibilities, as well as the expected outcomes of the programme.

As part of the initiative, students will work with the U15, U17 and U20 national wrestling teams, gaining practical experience in athletes’ physical preparation, injury prevention and post-injury rehabilitation. They will also become familiar with the working principles of national teams and develop their collaboration skills through interaction with coaches and athletes.

Physiotherapy is an essential component of modern sport. Physiotherapists help protect athletes’ health, prevent injuries and support recovery after injury. Their role is particularly important in a physically demanding sport such as wrestling.

The joint initiative of the AWF and the ASA aims to strengthen the links between higher education and sports practice, contribute to the training of qualified sports physiotherapy specialists, and further develop medical and rehabilitation support in Azerbaijani wrestling.