Imam as an example for youth not only in religion, but in sports as well: the Public Organization “Emel” awards the winner of table tennis tournament

Youth tournament on table tennis, undertaken by the Public Organization “Emel” jointly with the Crimean Ministry for Youth and Sports, Science and Education, was held on Sunday, September 30, 2012, in the Islamic Cultural Center “Alraid” in Simferopol.

It was Mr. Alim Sametdinov, 50 years old imam of Kulech Mechit village (Novopokrovka, Kirovsky district), which took on to test strengths with the youth. He was registered for tournament participation out of mere respect, as organizers didn’t dare to refuse the elder man’s request, but afterwards neither of young participants could beat the imam. He took the top place that he deserved. 

The total number of tournament participants was 22, including 2 young ladies. According to Mr.Muslim Dervishev, “Emel” chairman, it is already the second table tennis tournament organized by “Emel” (the previous one was held last year), and they are intended to turn it into a good tradition. “We did not put age limitations for participants, nor did we limit access for non-Muslims; yet, as our goal is to bring young people of various origins together for joint action and beneficial pastime, we made emphasis on the young people. However, as shown by the today’s game, they have something to learn from elder generation, which is not limited to special competencies or life experiences. It was a very good experience of communications between generations; we are pleased and surprised”.

 The winners were nominated according to competition results. The top place was taken deservedly by Mr. Alim Samedinov, the second and the third places – by Mr. Zakariya Jelilov and Mr. Ilkin Kerimov, students of the hafiz school in Simferopol. Prize winners were rewarded with memorial deeds and money prizes (300, 200 and 100  grn. for the top, second, and third places). In addition, all the participants were given kits of books and CD with learning information about Islam.

50 years old imam comments on his victory: “I could win with help of the Most High, and, perhaps, by making use of student time experiences, because in my young years, when living in the locality of Crimean Tatars exile in Uzbekistan, I used to win prize places at republican contests”.

reporter.