This was staged between September 23 and 25, with an aim of providing dual careers for student-athletes who wish to remain involved in sport as they continue their studies.

Nearly 30 applicants were whittled down to 15 successful candidates, of which half of applicants were women.

"This programme is a great opportunity for student-athletes who wish to focus primarily on their academic and professional career, while maintaining an active role in the sport that they are passionate about," said Ibrahim Cicioglu, professor at Gazi University and FISU Technical Committee chair for wrestling.

"It's an extension to the traditional dual career system that student athletes typically go through when studying and competing simultaneously."

UWW-certified referee educator and two-time Olympic referee Carlos Garcia from Spain conducted the three-day course which involved theory-based education in the morning, followed by practical training on the mat in the afternoon.

Some areas the prospective referees learned included the roles of the referee, referees mechanics and positioning, controlling the bout, evaluating scoring positions, athlete safeguarding and sustainability, and foundational skills of a UWW-licensed official.

FISU Acting President Leonz Eder stressed the need for more athletes too when attending a session.

"We urgently need educated referees who know the rules and understand fair-play on the mat and this project will help us meet that target," he said.

The FISU World Cup Combat Sports concluded on Friday (September 30).