The recent One Standard Muaythai (OSM) Coaches Seminar held in India was a resounding success, drawing trainers from all corners of the country. Taking place over three intensive days, the seminar was a melting pot of knowledge, experience, and passion for the sport of Muaythai. The event was headlined by world-renowned Thai Masters Ajarn Chao Wathayotha, Ajarn Artit Tobwongsri and Ajarn Thaveewat Sutthi, who shared their invaluable insights and the latest techniques, elevating the standard of coaching across the country. Participants interacted enthusiastically, embracing the inherent values of respect, honor, and tradition that Muaythai represents. The energy was palpable as coaches returned to their respective communities, equipped with new strategies and a renewed commitment to fostering the growth of Muaythai in India. The seminar marked a significant milestone in the sport’s development in the country, promising a brighter future for Indian Muaythai.
Over the course of the three-day event, participants not only received hands-on training from the Thai Masters but also attended a series of seminars covering a wide range of pertinent topics. These included Anti-Doping, where students learned about the importance of clean competition and the ramifications of doping violations. A session on nutrition gave insights into the optimal dietary choices for Muaythai athletes, enabling them to perform at their peak. The seminar on safeguarding emphasized the significance of creating a safe, respectful environment for all participants in the sport. Lastly, a seminar on the legal aspects of Muaythai provided attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the legalities surrounding the sport, from athlete contracts to event organization. These sessions, balanced with the physical training, ensured the participants received a well-rounded enrichment of their Muaythai knowledge and skills.
On the final day of the seminar, the attendees had the privilege of hearing from a key figure in the IFMA, Secretary-General Stephan Fox. He delivered an insightful keynote address, outlining the vision and mission of the IFMA. Fox emphasized the critical role coaches play as valuable stakeholders in the sport of Muaythai. He highlighted their responsibility in not just honing the skills of athletes, but also in shaping them as ambassadors of the sport, echoing the values of respect, honor, and tradition. The keynote was a fitting conclusion to the seminar, underscoring the collective mission towards advancing the sport of Muaythai in India.
The seminar reached a crescendo with the much-anticipated certification presentation. Over 400 coaches, who had journeyed through this enriching experience, stood with a sense of accomplishment as their names were called. Each participant was awarded a certificate, a tangible testament to their newfound knowledge, honed skills, and their commitment towards elevating the sport of Muaythai in India. This momentous conclusion not only symbolized the end of the seminar but also the commencement of a journey, as coaches imbued with renewed passion and perspective took their first steps towards molding the next generation of Muaythai athletes.
As the President of the United Muaythai Association of India, Prasenjit Singh, so eloquently stated, “The true victory lies not in the number of medals we bring home, but in the number of lives we touch and transform through our sport. This seminar is a beacon of hope for many budding athletes and a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence in Muaythai. Let us continue to uphold the values of respect, honor, and tradition as we stride forward towards our collective vision.”