Dubai Sports Council has embarked on an ambitious journey to nurture and elevate fencing talents in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In a strategic collaboration with the UAE Fencing Federation and MK Fencing Academy, the council is launching a groundbreaking four-year initiative to identify, train, and mould young Emirati athletes into future champions of the fencing world. This article delves into the comprehensive outline of this initiative, emphasizing its significance and the steps involved in this exciting endeavour.
Unveiling the Initiative
Dubai Sports Council’s new initiative aims to lay the foundation for the growth of the sport of fencing in the UAE. The primary objectives are to increase participation in this Olympic discipline, nurture local champions from both genders and prepare them to represent the nation on the global stage, with a particular focus on future Olympic competitions.
Targeted Age Group: 10 to 12 Years Old
The initiative focuses on young Emirati talents between the ages of 10 and 12, aiming to identify and develop their potential early in their sporting journey.
Collaborators: UAE Fencing Federation & MK Fencing Academy
Dubai Sports Council has partnered with two influential entities to make this initiative a reality. The UAE Fencing Federation brings its expertise in governing and promoting fencing at the national level, while MK Fencing Academy contributes its technical prowess and experience in nurturing promising athletes.
Training Location: Hamdan Sports Complex
The initiative will take place at the state-of-the-art Hamdan Sports Complex, a renowned venue hosting many sporting events, including international championships. The academy’s premises within the complex will be the epicentre of fencing development.
Registration Opens: January 12th, 2024
Starting January 12th, 2024, male and female Emirati juniors interested in joining the training program can register for free through the provided link.
Preliminary Training Programs
Registered athletes will undergo a series of preliminary training programs. These programs will assess their skills and serve as a platform for identifying the most promising talents.
Selecting the Best 12 Athletes
The top 12 athletes will be selected to participate in the four-year intensive training program following the preliminary tests and measurements. These chosen few will embark on a journey to develop their fencing skills and competitiveness.
Announcing the Final Shortlist: February 16th, 2024
The names of the athletes who successfully make it to the final shortlist will be announced on February 16th, 2024. This marks a crucial milestone in their fencing journey.
Commencement of Training Sessions: February 20th, 2024
The training sessions for the selected fencers are scheduled to commence on February 20th, 2024. These sessions will be held twice weekly, specifically on Mondays and Wednesdays, from 04:30 pm to 05:30 pm.
Meet Mr. Mikhail Kozhev: The Driving Force
Mr. Mikhail Kozhev, the Manager and President of the MK Fencing Academy, is the driving force behind this initiative. His vision and commitment are instrumental in shaping the program’s success.
MK Fencing Academy’s Mission
MK Fencing Academy is dedicated to enhancing the technical skills of promising athletes while instilling values of teamwork, solidarity, endurance, and fair play among the youth.
Comprehensive Training Approach
The academy is poised to offer a holistic training approach encompassing technical, physical, and psychological aspects and nutrition programs tailored for young athletes.
Empowering Emirati Youth
The initiative’s overarching goal is to empower Emirati boys and girls to embrace the art of fencing, promoting a more active, healthy, and joyful lifestyle among the youth.
Creating Competent Champions
The initiative’s ultimate aspiration is to produce competent champions equipped with fencing skills and humanitarian values that inspire future generations.
Limited Opportunities, Act Swiftly
Prospective male and female youth are urged to expedite their registration process, as opportunities within the initiative are limited.
Hamdan Sports Complex: A Sporting Hub
Hamdan Sports Complex is a prominent sporting hub hosting 55 events annually, including 20 international championships.
Diverse Sporting Offerings
The complex accommodates 17 Olympic and non-Olympic sports, catering to a wide range of individual and team sports enthusiasts. These include swimming, basketball, karate, boxing, badminton, and, of course, fencing.
A History of Excellence
Hamdan Sports Complex has a history of hosting prestigious events, including the World Cadets & Juniors Fencing Championships in 2022 and the World Karate Championships.
FAQs
Q: How can I register for the initiative?
A: Registration is open through the provided link starting January 12th, 2024.
Q: Is there an age limit for registration?
A: The initiative targets Emirati talents aged 10 to 12.
Q: When will the final shortlist of athletes be announced?
A: The final shortlist will be revealed on February 16th, 2024.
Q: How often are the training sessions held?
A: Training sessions occur twice weekly, specifically on Mondays and Wednesdays, from 04:30 to 05:30 pm.
Q: Who is behind this initiative?
A: In collaboration with the UAE Fencing Federation and MK Fencing Academy, Dubai Sports Council spearheads this initiative.
Q: What is the vision of the initiative?
A: The vision is to empower Emirati youth to learn fencing arts, embrace active and healthy lifestyles, and become champions who inspire future generations.
Conclusion
Dubai Sports Council’s new initiative to foster fencing talents in the UAE represents a pivotal moment in the nation’s sporting journey. With its strategic partnerships, top-notch facilities, and commitment to nurturing future champions, this program promises to leave an indelible mark on the fencing world. Emirati youth are encouraged to seize this golden opportunity not only to master the art of fencing but also to embark on a path of excellence, camaraderie, and personal growth.
