The International Boxing Association (IBA) supported the initiative of the Saudi Arabia Boxing Federation to organize a special 1-star coaching course specifically for women. Held in Riyadh, the course saw the participation of 38 female boxing coaches.

Led by an experienced instructor, Vice-Chair of IBA Coaches Committee Nadia Abdelhameed Mohamed from Egypt, the course united female participants from Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Tunisia, Morocco, Eritrea, United Arab Emirates, Jordan, and Palestine.

From 18-24 May, the participants learned theory and took part in the practical exercises followed by exams. The participants who pass the examination will receive IBA 1-star coaches certification.

IBA Secretary General and CEO Chris Roberts OBE claimed that IBA is committed to delivering education opportunities to all corners of the world.

‘The IBA is championing gender equality, and offering Muslim women the chance to join a dedicated female coaching course is a splendid testament to our commitment to meeting the needs of our community. I’m thrilled that our extensive network of certified coaches will grow and will now include these remarkable women from Arab nations who are eager to gain new insights. I eagerly anticipate seeing them at future IBA competitions,’ he said.

Nadia Abdelhameed Mohamed added that she was pleased to see the high level of coaches taking part in the course.

‘I am deeply grateful to the IBA for this incredible opportunity for Arab Muslim female coaches. Many of these women hold degrees from prestigious universities and actively practice boxing in various countries. The participants demonstrated an impressive level of technique and knowledge that truly surprised me. I eagerly look forward to awarding them their well-deserved certificates, marking their first step within the IBA coaching system,’ the course leader said.