WFDF Impact program empowers local youth coaches

On August 26, 2026, the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF), supported an Ultimate Coaching Workshop in Gatagara, Rwanda, through its Impact Program. Organized in close collaboration with the Rwanda Flying Disc Federation (RUFA) and Kids Play International (KPI), the activity certified over 25 local youth coaches in the fundamentals of Ultimate and Spirit of the Game.

This grassroots workshop directly supports WFDF’s Strategic Plan by assisting a Member National Federation in using Flying Disc Sports for youth development, gender equality, and community empowerment. By providing local leaders with turnkey tools, the Impact Program fosters valuable life skills and long-term resilience in rural communities.

Expanding community impact through grassroots education

During the clinic, coaches engaged in practical and theoretical sessions covering proper throwing techniques, offensive and defensive strategies, and small-sided games. Crucially, the training focused heavily on the Spirit of the Game, the sport’s self-officiating framework that requires players to actively practice conflict resolution, personal integrity, and mutual respect on the field.

While the immediate milestone was over 25 certified coaches, the long-term ripple effect will be significant. These local leaders are now equipped to integrate Ultimate into Kids Play International’s year-round programming, which currently reaches over 500 enrolled youth in Rwanda annually. Moving forward, Flying Disc Sports will serve as a continuous, active tool for social-emotional learning in Gatagara, helping young people—especially girls—navigate complex social challenges, practice taking healthy risks, and challenge historic gender norms.

Collaborative vision and next steps

The success of the workshop highlights the power of aligning governing bodies with localized, community-driven NGOs.

This collaboration with Kids Play International and WFDF gives our local coaches the official tools they need to inspire the next generation,” said Godfree Uwiringiyimana, President of the Rwanda Flying Disc Federation. We are excited to see Flying Disc Sports grow across Rwandan schools and communities as a lasting vehicle for peace, health, and equality.”

Supporting this workshop through WFDF’s Impact Program is just a part of our broader vision to empower Member National Federations and grassroots communities,” said Dillon Richardson, Director of Membership Services and Sport Development at WFDF. As we look to the future, equipping local leaders with accessible educational tools and official certification will be the catalyst for sustainable growth, inclusion, and youth leadership across all our Member National Federations globally.”

Following the workshop, WFDF will continue to support RUFA and KPI with digital toolkits and educational pathways through the WFDF Academy.

WFDF’s Impact Program supports Member National Federations and their community in growing and developing Flying Disc Sports. Since its creation, the Program has reached over one million participants across the world through providing grants, disc support, and other resources.