Radio Cadena Agramonte emisiora de Camagüey
Havana, August 18 - Cuban sports mourn the passing of Doctor Iván Román Suárez, PhD in Second Degree Sciences, a prominent figure with a recognized career both on and off the Island.
“His work stands as a pillar of scientific contribution to Cuban sports, to which he dedicated himself with unwavering passion and commitment,” wrote Osvaldo Vento Montiller, president of the National Institute of Sports, Physical Education and Recreation (Inder), on his social media account.
“We extend our condolences to the family, colleagues, and friends of someone who elevated his countless contributions with humility and humanism,” the official added, reflecting on the legacy of the Hero of Labor of the Republic of Cuba.
An Honorary Doctorate holder from the Manuel Fajardo University of Physical Culture and Sports (UCCFD), the eminent educator, born on January 20, 1949, is regarded as the father of strength training in Cuba and leaves behind a vast bibliography.
In 1984, he became the first doctor in the sports sector in the country, and 22 years later, he was the first Doctor of Second Degree Sports Sciences, reflecting his dedication and commitment to continuous improvement.
As a professor, referee, researcher, and writer, he devoted his life to sports and physical education, showcasing a remarkable service record defined by his willingness to share knowledge with students and colleagues.
In his specialty, he worked on the training of teams across various sports, including baseball, which he supported during the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
He participated in four Central American and Caribbean Games, five Pan American Games, three World Championships, and three Olympic Games, primarily focusing on officiating.
His international endeavors included roles as head coach of the national weightlifting team of Chile and strength preparation advisor for the Saudi Arabian team at the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
He also served as president of the Technical Committee of the Pan American Weightlifting Confederation and was a member of the Technical Committee of the International Weightlifting Federation.
He held the position of president of the National Tribunal of Doctors in Physical Culture Sciences, and at the time of his passing, he was a member of the Advisory Technical Council of Inder, as well as an advisor to the Directorate of Science, Technology, and the Environment within that organization. (Text and Photo: Cubadebate)
