PANAMA CITY, Panama – Paraguay is sending a delegation of over 140 athletes to the IV South American Youth Games, set to accept place in Panama City and Playa Venao from April 12th to April 25th, 2026. The team, representing the future of Paraguayan sport, was officially presented on Monday at the Paraguayan Olympic Committee (COP) in a ceremony attended by President Santiago Peña.
The Games, organized by ODESUR, will bring together more than 2,000 athletes aged 14 to 17 from 15 countries across the region. This competition serves as a crucial development opportunity for young athletes, providing a platform to showcase their talent on an international stage. For many, it will be their first taste of multi-sport competition at this level, offering invaluable experience as they progress in their careers.
The Paraguayan roster boasts representation across a diverse range of 20 sports, including aquatic sports, athletics, badminton, basketball, boxing, cycling, fencing, football (men’s and women’s), futsal, golf, judo, karate, weightlifting, wrestling, taekwondo, tennis, table tennis, archery, triathlon, and chess. This broad participation underscores the growing investment in youth sports development throughout Paraguay.
Norma Fernández, President of the Paraguayan Hockey Association, will serve as the team’s chef de mission. She will be supported by a multidisciplinary team comprised of doctors, physiotherapists, coaches, and psychologists, ensuring the athletes receive comprehensive support throughout the Games. The support staff’s role extends beyond physical care, encompassing mental and emotional wellbeing, crucial for peak performance in a competitive environment.
Catalina Delmás (tennis) and Jhosías Núñez (football) have been selected as the flag bearers for Paraguay, a significant honor recognizing their achievements and leadership potential. They will lead the Paraguayan delegation during the opening ceremony, proudly carrying the national flag – the *Pabellón Patrio* – into the stadium. The selection of athletes from different sports highlights the inclusivity and broad appeal of the Games.
The South American Youth Games are not just about competition; they are about fostering camaraderie and cultural exchange among young athletes from across the continent. The event provides a unique opportunity for these young individuals to build friendships and learn from each other, promoting a spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect. The location, split between Panama City and the coastal town of Playa Venao, offers a diverse backdrop for the Games, showcasing both the urban and natural beauty of Panama.
The Paraguayan delegation’s participation in the IV South American Youth Games represents a significant investment in the future of sport in the country. The exposure and experience gained by these young athletes will undoubtedly contribute to the continued growth and success of Paraguayan sports at the regional and international levels. The government, through the *Secretaría Nacional de Deportes*, and the Paraguayan Olympic Committee have both emphasized their commitment to supporting youth sports development programs.
Looking ahead, the Paraguayan team will focus on final preparations in the weeks leading up to the Games. Training camps and practice sessions will be intensified to ensure the athletes are in peak physical and mental condition. The team’s performance in Panama will be closely watched by sports enthusiasts across Paraguay, who are eager to see the next generation of athletes shine on the international stage.
The Games are scheduled to begin on April 12th, 2026, with the opening ceremony in Panama City. Competition will continue through April 25th, with events taking place in various venues across the city and in Playa Venao. Fans can follow the Paraguayan team’s progress through official updates from the *Secretaría Nacional de Deportes* and the Paraguayan Olympic Committee.
What are your predictions for Team Paraguay at the South American Youth Games? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
