Boost to self-esteem, says coach
Young martial artists in Basra train in karate during summer break
BASRA — The Youth and Sports Forum in Umm Qasr, west of Basra, has organized a summer martial arts course for youngsters under the title “Iraq Champions Course.” The event, now in its sixth year, involves 50 participants, both boys and girls.
According to coach Murtadha Samir, karate is an excellent way to develop physical abilities and cultivate talents away from mobile devices. Parents have been supportive by providing sports equipment and ensuring their children’s schedules, including sleep times, are well-managed.
“The courses offered by the forum cater to children aged 6 to 14 and juniors aged 15 to 17, running throughout the summer break,” said Samir. “They bring together boys and girls to learn combat skills, self-defense, and physical fitness under the guidance of specialized trainers.”
Karate, Samir says, enhances children’s focus, awareness, respect for rules, and self-esteem. These courses provide an excellent way for youngsters to spend their time away from mobile devices and other technologies that occupy their time without offering intellectual and physical development, according to Samir.
Success stories abound from these courses, with graduates representing sports clubs in Basra and achieving top positions in competitions across Iraq.
Among the participants, some girls have earned green and black belts, participating in various competitions in the junior categories, representing Basra clubs.
“We hope these talents receive adequate support to represent Iraq in local and regional championships. Districts and towns have players with good potential; all they need is the right attention to represent not just Basra but Iraq as a whole,” added Samir.