Over 100 participants, including certified national coaches from various regions, took part in the 3-day IFMA coaching educational course held in the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Under the leadership of Mr. Javad Nasiri, Muaythai is fully recognized by the National Olympic Committee and Sports Ministry of Iran. This recognition enabled the workshop to be hosted at the National Olympic Academy, with the full support of the National Olympic Committee. The seminar was officially opened by the Deputy Minster of Sport and Youth Ministery of Iran Dr. Asbaghiyan, emphasizing the strong and important relationship between the I.R. Muaythai Association and IFMA, the world governing body. Mr. Javad Nasiri, President of the I.R. Muaythai Association, welcomed a large delegation from the Kingdom of Thailand, led by Ajahn Chao and Kru Id, alongside IFMA Sports Director Janice Lyn and IFMA Secretary General Stephan Fox.
Mr. Nasiri proudly highlighted the cooperation between the Iranian Muaythai Federation and IFMA, applauding the inclusion of Muaythai in events such as the Islamic Solidarity Games and the Asian Youth Games.
The IFMA Secretary General, Stephan Fox, extended his warm welcome to all delegates and introduced the key speakers and sessions of the seminar, including:
- Muaythai’s Journey to the 5 Rings – Stephan Fox, IFMA Secretary General
- Clean Sport – Janice Lyn, IFMA Sport Director
- Health and Safety of Athletes in IFMA and Weigh-In Procedures – Dr. Erdogan Aydin, Chair of IFMA Medical Commission
- R&J Physical Training – Gunter Plank & Porjai Laithongkam, IFMA R&J Committee
- WMC Rules – Ajahn Thanong, Head of R&J at Lumpinee Stadium
- Safeguarding – James Tucker and Katie Hart, Directors of Real World Academies
- Nutrition – Janice Lyn, IFMA Sport Director
- IFMA Rules and Regulations – Gunter Plank, Top IFMA ITO
In his opening remarks, Mr. Fox outlined the Olympic principles and emphasized the role of sport in fostering cultural understanding and promoting peace.
The seminar, consisting of 15 sessions (theoretical and practical) spread over 3 days, can be described as a tremendous success, enriching the knowledge and skills of all attendees while strengthening the bonds between IFMA and the I.R. Muaythai Association.
