Strategic planning and limitless support from the wise leadership reason behind the historic feat, says His Excellency Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi
Dubai, July 19, 2022: The UAE national jiu-jitsu team landed in Dubai on 18 July after competing admirably at the 11th edition of the World Games, one of the most important global multi-sport events in the world. The squad was greeted at the airport by a strong delegation headed by HE Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade.
The UAE national team won five medals at the recently concluded championship, including Faisal Al Ketbi winning gold in the 85 kg and open weight categories and Mohammed Al Suwaidi taking home silver in the 69 kg division. Meanwhile, Shamma al Kalbani became the first Emirati female player to clinch a medal at the World Games, winning two bronze medals in the 63 kg and open weight categories.
“You set a role model for future generations that seek glory,” said HE Al Zeyoudi while congratulating the heroes on their remarkable achievements. “Secret behind the UAE jiu-jitsu team’s success in winning world championships like this is having a great vision, long-term strategic planning, and limitless support from the leadership.”
Mohammed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAEJJF, was among the dignitaries at the airport to welcome the UAE delegation to the US. “The visionary leadership that believes in the outstanding qualities and capabilities of our players and their steadfast determination of not giving up is the reason behind every significant victory and strategic gain for our country’s sport,” he added.
Historic moments
Faisal Al Ketbi expressed his immense joy at receiving such a grand welcome. “These are joyous moments that we will always cherish. I want to dedicate this success to the wise leadership for their ongoing support of sportsmen and sports as well as the UAEJJF and the chairman, His Excellency Abdel Moneim Al Hashemi.”
“The achievement in Birmingham was the result of our continuous work for five years, specifically after achieving the gold medal in Warsaw in 2017.”
Dr. Marwan Ali Al Kaabi, Executive Director of Operations at the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA) said: “We are thrilled about this excellent accomplishment. We take great pride in offering players and the UAEJJF’s events various healthcare support.”
Omar Muhamed Karmastaji, Vice President of General Services at the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) was also present to receive the team. “The support of the wise leadership and the excellent coordination across government institutions are the foundation for jiu-jitsu’s growth in the nation,” he added.
Elsewhere Ramon Lemos, coach of the national jiu-jitsu team, said: “The victory at the World Games was a direct result of their meticulous training. The winning mentality of the players gave them an advantage on the mats.”
Special Reward
Recognizing the player’s outstanding performance, International Vision Investments (IVI) announced a symbolic monetary award of Dh50,000 for the gold medallist; Dh30,000 for the silver medallist and Dh20,000 for the bronze medallist will be given to the nation’s heroes.
HE Aref Al Awani, General Secretary, Abu Dhabi Sports Council; HE Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri Deputy Chairman UAEJJF, and several representatives of strategic partners and sponsors, including ADNOC, Ministry of Interior, SEHA, Emirates Red Crescent, Palms Sports, the General Authority of Sports, and National Olympic Committee were also present to receive the champions.
