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In a narrow alley of Tikiouine, a suburb of Agadir, an open space has been transformed into a kickboxing arena every evening since the start of Ramadan. A ring is set up in the street, surrounded by children and young people from the neighborhood, some wearing gloves and preparing for bouts, others simply watching and cheering.
Through this initiative, the Champion-Making Project Association has created an open sports space accessible to everyone, in a social solidarity effort that is the first of its kind in the Agadir region.
Speaking to Yabiladi, Tariq Bouderga, president of the association and initiator of the project, explained that the idea emerged as a response to a social reality that becomes more visible during Ramadan.
«During Ramadan, some negative behaviors can become more visible, such as drug use or other activities that offer little benefit to young people», he said. «That is why the association decided to organize a Ramadan kickboxing tournament as a positive alternative capable of attracting children and youth».
«The aim of this initiative is to create a space that brings together young people from the region around sports, with participation open to everyone, whether by competing in matches or simply attending to watch and support the participants», he added.
The association set up the ring and necessary equipment near its headquarters. According to Bouderga, two daily training sessions have been organized: the first runs from 5 p.m. until iftar and is mainly reserved for younger participants, while sessions for teenagers and young adults take place after iftar.
Every Saturday evening, sparring matches are held, bringing together tournament participants and young athletes from other sports associations in order to evaluate their level and help develop their skills.
Participants of all ages
The initiative, which runs until the end of Ramadan, aims not only to provide entertainment but also to identify and train athletes capable of representing the association in regional and national competitions. According to Bouderga, participants range in age from 4 to 80 years old.
To ensure safety, the association enlisted a doctor to supervise the matches. Impressed by the initiative, the doctor decided to volunteer during the final week of Ramadan, with an ambulance and medical staff on standby.
So far, no injuries have been reported, thanks to strict participation criteria. Prospective competitors must undergo an initial training session to assess their physical and technical level and are also required to have insurance.
At the end of each Saturday evening, participants receive medals and certificates of appreciation. The final bout, scheduled for the end of Ramadan, will award the tournament cup. The association will also select six promising participants to join its team, covering all related costs, including sports equipment, insurance, and transportation to competitions.
