Urges govt for indoor stadium to propel sports development
Pampore: Maroof Hilal Sofi from Saffron Town Pampore, a distinguished International martial art player affiliated with the Martial Art Association of Jammu and Kashmir, has been honoured with the prestigious National Icon Award. This accomplished young athlete, who has demonstrated his prowess on both global and domestic stages, emerges as a symbol of excellence in the martial arts domain.
Maroof’s impressive journey reached new peaks with a Bronze medal victory at the 16th World Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation (WEKAF) World Championship held in the Philippines last year. His outstanding performance not only brought acclaim to his name but also heightened the recognition of Indian martial arts on the world stage.
The National Icon Award acknowledges Maroof Sofi’s unwavering dedication, exceptional talent, and significant contributions to the field of martial arts. Maroof is very happy about this well-deserved recognition,
Speaking with Kashmir Reader, Maroof expressed happiness on being selected for the National Icon Award 2023. The award ceremony took place in Delhi on Monday, and he expressed great pride in receiving this recognition in the presence of Jagadambika Pal, Member of Parliament, and former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh.
Maroof said he recently represented India in the Philippines, where he won a bronze medal, bringing him great joy today. Before this, he achieved numerous accomplishments and received awards from the district administration.
“My parents feel proud that I am playing for India, representing my country,” he said. He is pleased with the support he receives from both the administration and the media.
“I have participated in nine national championships so far and achieved significant success internationally. In last year’s championships held in the Philippines, I secured 6 gold, two silver, and one bronze medal. Then, I was selected to represent my country internationally and I clinched the third position for India,” he said.
Maroof said he is running a Thang-Ta academy in Pampore. He is joined by another senior, and together, they are training children. Currently, he has around 25 students who attend regularly, coming from different areas, to whom he provides training.
“I appeal to the youth to engage in sports activities. Sports have numerous benefits; keep a person fit and provide with an opportunity to earn a good reputation,” he said.
The athlete has sought the attention of the government towards a significant issue they face – the lack of an Indoor stadium in Pampore. “We take our practice sessions, which usually start in the morning, at home due to the absence of indoor facilities. This poses a considerable challenge, and I urge the government to address this by considering the construction of an Indoor stadium in Pampore,” he said.
“Our practice comes to a halt during winter, and currently, we cannot hold training sessions due to the cold weather, rain, and snow. We request the government to consider building an indoor stadium in Pampore, which would effectively resolve our issue,” Maroof added.