Blindfolded Fencing Champion: “I believe hijab increases resilience and endurance in female athletes.”
A Multi-Talented Athlete
Fatemeh Mollaei, an insurance management student at Imam Reza University and the national blindfolded fencing champion, is active in various martial arts in addition to fencing, including taekwondo, gymnastics, kung fu, and pencak silat, earning black belts in most of these disciplines. Currently, her primary focus is on pencak silat.
Early Start and Perseverance
Ms. Mollaei began her athletic journey at the age of 13. Despite the difficulties and setbacks she has faced in her progress, she has continued her efforts with the support of her family.
Inspiring a new generation of Iranian girls, she embodies strength, faith, determination, and pride in hijab.
The Importance of Sports for Young Women
Regarding the importance of sports, she stated: “My suggestion to young girls is to include sports activities alongside their other programs and interests, because in addition to improving physical health, sports strengthens the spirit and creates vitality in life.”
“Although some believe that Islamic hijab is an obstacle to sports activities, I believe that this type of covering increases the mental and physical abilities of female athletes ..
Hijab as a Source of Strength and Respect
Regarding the role of Islamic hijab in women’s sports, this athlete also said: “Although some believe that Islamic hijab is an obstacle to sports activities, I believe that this type of covering increases the mental and physical abilities of female athletes and earns them respect in the global view as representatives of a Muslim country.”
Active in the Community and Future Aspirations
It is worth noting that Ms. Fatemeh Mollaei was previously responsible for physical education in the Basij battalion and the Hazrat Zahra (PBUH) 7th district of Malek Ashtar in Mashhad. For several years, she has also managed summer gymnastics classes at Javadal-A’emeh Mosque (PBUH). Recently crowned the national blindfolded fencing champion in Qom, she is currently preparing to participate in international competitions.
From: basij