Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club Celebrates 10 Years of Glory

The Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club, renowned for its commitment to excellence, recently marked a significant milestone in its history—a decade of unparalleled success. To celebrate this monumental achievement, the club hosted a grand ceremony that reflected on its remarkable journey and illustrious accomplishments, which have placed it at the forefront of the combat sports world in the UAE and beyond.

In the past ten years, the club has achieved extraordinary success across a broad range of martial arts disciplines, including jiu-jitsu, judo, taekwondo, karate, wrestling, mixed martial arts (MMA), and tug of war. These achievements are a testament to the tireless work and dedication of both the athletes and the coaching staff. The celebration, held at the prestigious Sharjah Sheraton Hotel, was attended by key figures in the sports community, community leaders, and strategic partners who have supported the club’s growth and success.

The event, which was held under the patronage of the Sharjah Sports Council, was appropriately themed “A Decade of Commitment and Inspiration.” This theme encapsulates the club’s ethos, as its journey has been one of passion, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to developing athletes of the highest calibre.

A Journey Defined by Medals and Achievements

Over the past ten years, the Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club has earned an astonishing 7,800 medals in both local and international competitions. This incredible feat is not only a testament to the skill and determination of the club’s athletes but also to the high-quality training and support they receive. The club’s success across various martial arts disciplines is a rarity, with few institutions in the region achieving such an impressive medal haul in such a short period of time.

The club has excelled in diverse combat sports, with notable triumphs in jiu-jitsu, judo, taekwondo, karate, wrestling, MMA, and tug of war. These sports, which require a combination of strength, strategy, and discipline, have seen the club’s athletes consistently rise to the top, securing victory after victory in competitive arenas worldwide. Whether on local turf or in international competitions, the club’s athletes have made their mark, establishing themselves as leaders in their respective fields.

The club’s medal tally serves as a reflection of its exceptional training programs, the dedication of its athletes, and the strong foundation it has built in these specialized sports. It is a story of continued excellence that showcases the club’s enduring legacy and its impact on the sports landscape in the UAE.

The Ceremony: Reflecting on the Past and Celebrating the Future

The anniversary ceremony, held at the Sharjah Sheraton Hotel, was a fitting occasion to honor the club’s decade-long journey. The event was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamid Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Statistics and Community Development. Sheikh Mohammed played a key role in celebrating the club’s achievements and highlighting the significance of the club’s contributions to the sporting community in the UAE.

In his speech, Ahmed Saeed Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Club’s Board of Directors, expressed his pride in the club’s accomplishments and the growth it has experienced over the years. Al Jarwan highlighted that the club now boasts over 1,500 athletes, the majority of whom are Emiratis. This number is a clear indication of the club’s focus on nurturing local talent and providing a platform for Emirati athletes to shine on the global stage.

The club’s success is not limited to its medal count. Over the years, it has garnered 35 national and international honors, further solidifying its position as a leader in combat sports. These accolades, which include prestigious awards and recognitions, attest to the high standards of excellence upheld by the club in all its endeavors.

Acknowledging the Role of Key Figures in the Club’s Success

A major theme of the anniversary celebration was the acknowledgment of the crucial role played by various figures and institutions in the club’s success. Ahmed Saeed Al Jarwan, in his speech, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, for his continuous patronage and support of the club’s growth. His Highness’s unwavering commitment to the development of sports in the region has been instrumental in enabling the club to thrive.

Al Jarwan also extended his thanks to Crown Prince Sheikh Sultan Bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi, and the Deputy Rulers of Sharjah. Their steadfast support and belief in the club’s mission have played a vital role in helping the club achieve its goals and expand its influence both locally and internationally. The event served as a tribute to their contributions and the vision they have provided for the club’s future.

The Sharjah Sports Council, a key strategic partner, was also recognized for its vital role in helping the club implement its strategic plans and reach new heights of success. Without the council’s support, the club’s achievements would not have been possible. The collaboration between the Sharjah Sports Council and the Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club is a perfect example of how a shared vision can lead to groundbreaking success in the sports industry.

A Dream Realized: The Vision Behind the Club’s Success

The journey of the Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club is a story that began with a dream—a dream to build a center of excellence for martial arts and combat sports in the UAE. Over the past decade, that dream has grown into a reality, one that has made the club a source of pride for the nation.

Engineer Hanadi Khalifa Al Kabouri, Executive Director of the club, reflected on this journey during the anniversary celebrations. She noted that the club’s success is a result of years of hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance. “Celebrating 10 years of success is a reflection of a dream that started small, became a bright reality, and evolved into a vision that the entire club family is proud of,” she said. Al Kabouri also highlighted the many challenges the club has faced along the way. Despite these obstacles, the club has remained focused on its mission, overcoming each challenge with determination and resilience.

“The journey was full of challenges and defining moments,” Al Kabouri continued, “but it proved one thing: Determination creates miracles.” These words encapsulate the spirit of the club, which has continuously defied expectations and risen to the top in the world of combat sports.

Looking Ahead: The Club’s Commitment to Nurturing Future Champions

As the Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club celebrates its 10th anniversary, the focus is not only on past achievements but also on the future. The club remains committed to fostering the next generation of athletes and ensuring that its legacy of excellence continues for many years to come.

The club is actively working to expand its facilities and training programs to accommodate more athletes and provide them with the tools they need to succeed. It aims to continue developing world-class competitors who will represent the UAE with distinction on the global stage. Through a commitment to high-quality coaching, state-of-the-art facilities, and ongoing community engagement, the Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club is poised to remain a leader in combat sports for years to come.

In addition to its focus on athlete development, the club plans to host more competitions and events that will bring together athletes from all over the world. These events will not only showcase the club’s talent but also serve as a platform for sharing knowledge, building relationships, and furthering the growth of combat sports in the region.

A Legacy of National and International Honors

Over the past decade, the Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club has earned an impressive 35 national and international honors. These accolades are a testament to the club’s excellence and its unwavering commitment to achieving the highest standards of performance. These honors span a range of prestigious awards, including titles won by its athletes in various disciplines, recognition from sporting bodies, and accolades for the club’s overall contribution to the sports community.

These awards are not just a reflection of the club’s achievements on the mat, but also a recognition of its positive impact on the wider sporting community. By producing world-class athletes and continually striving for excellence, the Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club has firmly established itself as a leader in the field of combat sports. 2:35 pm