Khorfakkan came alive this week with a surge of energy and inspiration as the Sharjah Women’s Sports Council (SWSC) hosted an inclusive school athletics meet in the coastal city, highlighting the growing momentum behind female youth sports in the UAE. With participation from schools across the region, the event turned into more than just a competition—it became a celebration of resilience, teamwork, and female empowerment.
A New Chapter for Girls in Sports
The athletics meet, held on the Khorfakkan Sports Complex grounds, welcomed young girls from various educational institutions to showcase their athletic talent in a variety of track and field events. For many, it was their first time stepping onto a professional sports track. For all, it was an opportunity to break stereotypes and push boundaries.
Sharjah Women’s Sports Council, known for its dynamic approach to promoting women in sports across the emirate, has increasingly taken its programs beyond urban centres like Sharjah City. Hosting this event in Khorfakkan marks a strategic move to ensure that young girls in smaller towns are not left behind in the national movement towards greater gender inclusion in athletics.
More Than Medals
The day featured a vibrant mix of events, from sprints to long-distance runs, and from high jumps to relay races. While medals and trophies were awarded, the real prize was participation. Coaches and physical education teachers emphasized teamwork and personal growth over competition.
Students came away not just with certificates, but also with newfound confidence. For 14-year-old Mariam Al Zahrani, who ran the 400m for her school, the experience was nothing short of life-changing. “It’s the first time I’ve competed at this level. I didn’t win, but I now believe I can. That changes everything,” she said.
Sharjah’s Vision for Female Empowerment
This initiative is closely aligned with the broader goals of the Sharjah Women’s Sports Council, which continues to lead in creating equal opportunities for girls and women in athletic spaces. The council’s commitment to enhancing physical education and sport participation for females across all age groups is evident in their ongoing efforts to encourage girls to pursue their passion for sports.
By engaging with schools directly and facilitating grassroots events such as these, the council is not only scouting future sports stars but also nurturing healthy lifestyles and community engagement from a young age. These efforts reflect the forward-thinking approach of Sharjah’s leadership in empowering women through diverse sectors, especially in sports.
Khorfakkan as a Sporting Hub
Khorfakkan, known more for its scenic beaches and historical forts, may now start gaining recognition as a sports-friendly city, thanks to events like this. The SWSC’s choice to bring the athletic meet here is also part of a broader decentralization strategy—taking sports to where the talent is, rather than always expecting the talent to come to urban hubs.
Parents in the community responded positively to the event, many expressing gratitude for the exposure their children received. “Seeing my daughter run with such determination was emotional,” said Laila Al Shamsi, whose child participated in the long jump. “This gives her something bigger to dream about.”
A Community Effort
The event would not have been possible without the support of local schools, volunteers, and physical education trainers who worked tirelessly to train and prepare their students. Collaboration between the SWSC and educational institutions has been crucial in ensuring that girls not only get access to sports but are also encouraged to pursue them seriously.
Volunteers from the University of Sharjah and community health organizations were also present, helping with hydration booths, first aid, and motivational support. This created a festival-like atmosphere, where athletics became a way for the entire community to come together.
Looking Ahead
Encouraged by the success of the Khorfakkan athletics meet, the SWSC has announced its intention to hold similar events in other towns and regions, expanding its footprint. There are already talks of introducing inter-school sports leagues and regular coaching clinics aimed specifically at girls aged 10–18.
These upcoming initiatives will continue to highlight the importance of female participation in sports, offering more platforms for young girls to develop their athletic skills and pursue their sporting dreams.
More Than a Game
The athletics meet in Khorfakkan wasn’t just about physical competition—it was about proving what’s possible when young girls are given space to explore their potential. From the roar of the crowd to the sweat on the finish line, it was a day that left a mark not only on the track but in the hearts of those who participated and cheered.
As Sharjah leads the charge in advocating for women’s sports, events like these serve as living proof that progress is not just a policy but a practice. The stories from Khorfakkan this week are reminders that sport can be one of the most powerful tools for empowerment—and that every finish line crossed by a girl today lays the groundwork for a stronger, more equal tomorrow.
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