The support of athletes has been fundamental in shaping the IV South American Youth Games Panama 2026. Their competitive experience and first-hand understanding of what participants truly need add tremendous value to the team making this historic event possible.
Among them is William Duen, a bowling athlete and an essential member of our team as Head of NOC Services and Games Service Management. William doesn’t just speak with authority—he competes, lives, and breathes sport. He has participated in the 2022 and 2025 Bolivarian Games, the 2022 and 2025 Central American and Caribbean Games, the 2023 Pan American Games, and the 2022 South American Games. Throughout his career, he has earned seven medals: four bronze, one silver, and one gold.
When asked what motivates him to be part of the organizing team, William sums it up this way:
“Being part of a legacy that helps our Panamanian sport grow. I believe that is exactly what we are doing with JSJ Panama 2026. This will open doors for more Games.”
And when he speaks about the legacy he wants to leave behind, his vision is clear:
“To inspire young people and be remembered not only for my victories, but for what I want to do for Panamanian sport: for the whole world to see the talent we have in Panama—not only in soccer, baseball, or basketball, but in every sport.”
William has already made history. And when we asked him what it feels like to win a gold medal, he shared this:
“It is an honor to have made history not only for my country, but also for my sport. You work extremely hard to get there and to win… it’s indescribable. For me, the most important thing will always be seeing young athletes inspired to become the next great athletes of Panama.”
William Duen is #NextLevel
