We are on the verge of a new chapter in the history of sports for veterans and the disabled, marking an era of pride built on knowledge, expertise, and continuous support from the Ministry of Sports and Youth.
Today, the Federation had the honor of hosting the Minister of Sports and Youth. This meeting, held on the eve of important upcoming competitions, heralds the start of a new era in sports for people with disabilities. In this session, Dr. Koohpayezadeh emphasized the irreplaceable role of the ministry’s support and announced the federation’s determination to record a proud period relying on knowledge, specialization, modern technologies, and infrastructure development.
Dr. Jalil Koohpayezadeh, federation president, in his meeting with the minister, congratulated the arrival of the Week of Unity and the blessed birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He expressed, on behalf of the large family of veterans and disabled athletes, sincere gratitude to the minister for his special attention and unwavering support for this sport and its athletes. He expressed hope that with ongoing support, the federation’s international successes and honors will continue and grow.
He added that the Federation is a product of the Islamic Revolution, and through the tireless efforts of Mahmoud Khosravi Vafa, known as the father of disabled sports in the country, a worthy and effective presence of people with disabilities in sports fields was established. So far, significant achievements have been made, with more than 70% of the Paralympic caravan’s honors belonging to this federation. The expectation is that with continued support from the ministry and the National Paralympic Committee, this glorious path will persist.
Dr. Koohpayezadeh went on to say that currently, there is an opportunity to discuss and exchange ideas regarding the federation’s systems and software. Utilizing modern technologies and artificial intelligence will steer the sport toward scientific advancement. Leveraging contemporary knowledge alongside macro planning is essential for sustaining the federation’s proud achievements.
Referring to the federation’s programs, he noted that many activities have started since last year and performance reports have been presented in specialized sessions related to the Nagoya Para Asian Games, the Youth Para Asian Games, and the Islamic Countries Games to the ministry. They also propose establishing a special committee for Virtus Asian and World Games for athletes with intellectual disabilities, a group close to 3 million in the country, which requires serious attention. Although some activities receive support from the Special Olympic Committee, more structural support is needed for athletes eligible for competitions such as the Paralympics and Para Asian Games, especially in athletics, swimming, and table tennis.
Dr. Koohpayezadeh stated that infrastructure efforts have begun in cooperation with the ministry to allocate sports venues controlled by provincial committees to veterans and disabled athletes. While some venues registered in the federation’s name are active under provincial committees, others fall under Article 88, limiting their accessibility for disabled athletes. He hopes this will be resolved with the ministry’s support.
Looking forward, they are preparing eight disciplines for the UAE competitions and planning for shining performances in the Nagoya Para Asian Games and the Los Angeles Paralympics.
He stressed that through social responsibility and attracting sponsors, they aim to secure the necessary funding for the development of disabled sports. They also hope national media and broadcasting networks will pay more attention to this sport to promote a culture of effort and motivation and to familiarize families with disabled members with the sport’s unique potentials.
In conclusion, Dr. Koohpayezadeh remarked that relying on experts, specialists, new technologies, and continuous ministry support, they are determined to begin a new chapter in veterans and disabled sports, leaving a lasting mark in the honored history of this field.
