Clarisse Agbegnenou Named Athlete Role Model for Dakar Youth Olympics

**Clarisse Agbegnenou has been named an Athlete Role Model for the Dakar Youth Olympic Games, where she will help guide roughly 2,700 athletes aged 17 and under.** Her appointment highlights the International Judo Federation’s focus on using elite athletes to mentor the next generation.

Context The Athlete Role Model programme debuted at the Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games and has since provided young competitors with mentorship, workshops, and daily interaction with experienced Olympians. For judo, the programme offers a platform to showcase the sport’s values beyond competition.

Key Facts International Judo Federation President Marius Vizer said he is “delighted” that Agbegnenou accepted the role, calling her an outstanding champion who embodies judo values. Larisa Kiss, Director for the Olympic Games and Olympic Movement for Judo, noted that her achievements, peer respect, and status as a young mother make her a powerful example of women's strength and resilience, especially for young girls. Approximately 2,700 athletes aged 17 and under will receive support from Athlete Role Models at the Dakar Youth Olympic Games.

What It Means Agbegnenou’s involvement brings a high‑profile judo figure into a mentorship role that reaches thousands of youth athletes, potentially increasing visibility for the sport and reinforcing gender‑balanced representation. Her dual identity as an elite athlete and a parent may resonate with young participants navigating similar life stages.

What to watch next: observe how Agbegnenou’s workshops on mental preparation, injury prevention, and career development influence participant outcomes and whether her model inspires similar appointments in future Youth Olympic Games.