The President of the World Sokol Federation, Damian Małecki, recently completed a historic journey across Canada and the USA, marking a significant milestone in international Sokol cooperation.
Official Meeting of the World Sokol Federation in Canada
The journey included an official meeting in Canada, where the President of the World Sokol Federation, Damian Małecki, met with the President of Sokol Canada, Robert Tmej, in Niagara-on-the-Lake. This meeting served as a platform for strengthening international cooperation, exchanging organizational experiences, and discussing plans for the future development of the Sokol movement. Sincere gratitude is extended to Sokol Canada for their warm welcome!
Sokol Leaders Meet in Pittsburgh to Shape the Organization’s Future
From June 5–7, Pittsburgh became the focal point of international Sokol cooperation as key leaders gathered for a series of meetings. The summit brought together Damian Małecki, President of the World Sokol Federation; Joe Bielecki of the Slovak Gymnastic Union of the Sokol USA; and Adam Wilt, President of the American Sokol Organization. Over the course of three days, the presidents engaged in hours of productive discussions, mapping out plans and envisioning the global future of the Sokol movement.
Exploring Heritage at the University of Pittsburgh
The official itinerary in Pittsburgh kicked off on June 6 with a visit to the University of Pittsburgh, world-renowned for its historic Nationality Rooms. The leaders toured these spaces, which celebrate the diverse cultures that built the city, paying special attention to the rooms reflecting their shared Slavic heritage. Following the tour, the delegation was graciously invited to the Chancellor’s office for coffee and refreshments, offering a moment of camaraderie and informal dialogue.
A Day of History and Special Recognition
The third day of the summit was dedicated to exploring Pittsburgh’s rich industrial and cultural past with a visit to the Senator John Heinz History Center. Joe Bielecki acted as the expert guide for the day, leading his fellow presidents through the museum’s extensive exhibits.
The visit also served as the backdrop for a special moment of gratitude. President Damian Małecki, on behalf of the World Sokol Federation, presented Joe Bielecki with a commemorative engraved plaque. The award was given in appreciation for Bielecki’s outstanding hospitality and leadership as the host of the first edition of the Worldwide Sokol Walk.
Historic Conclusion with the Polish Falcons of America
The final meeting during the World Sokol Federation President’s journey across Canada and the USA took place in Pittsburgh, June 8th. President Damian Małecki visited Sokol Nest No. 8 in Pittsburgh, where he met with board members of the Polish Falcons of America – National Headquarters and President Timothy Kuzma. Discussions focused on shared history, future plans, and the upcoming visit of youth from the USA to Poland, which is set to begin next week.
This marked the first meeting in history between the President of the World Sokol Federation and the President of the Polish Falcons of America. At the conclusion of the visit, President Damian Małecki extended his heartfelt thanks to the Board of the Polish Falcons of America and President Timothy Kuzma for their hospitality.
