Member of the Pakistan Olympic Association Women’s Commission and President of the Pakistan Taekwondo Federation (Women’s Wing), Saba Shameem Jadoon, has emphasized the importance of educational institutions in identifying and nurturing new sports talent in the country.
Speaking to the media, she highlighted that schools, colleges, and universities can serve as breeding grounds for young athletes if the right infrastructure and opportunities are provided.
Importance of Youth and Junior Competitions
Jadoon stressed that Pakistan’s sports organizations must take proactive steps at the grassroots level to promote sports culture. She called for the regular organization of youth and junior-level competitions, explaining that such tournaments provide a platform for emerging players to showcase their skills.
“These competitions will help us discover hidden talent across the country,” she noted, adding that this talent should not go unnoticed but instead be polished through proper training programs.
Training Camps to Shape Future Champions
According to Jadoon, the athletes identified from grassroots competitions should be given opportunities in training camps, where their abilities can be further refined under expert supervision.
“With the right coaching and exposure, these young athletes can represent Pakistan in international tournaments and bring pride to the nation,” she said.
A Call for Long-Term Vision
She also underlined the need for a long-term vision from sports federations, educational institutions, and policymakers. By investing in youth development today, Pakistan can build a strong pipeline of athletes capable of competing at the global level in the future.
Building a Sporting Nation
Jadoon’s remarks come at a time when Pakistan is seeking to improve its international standing in various sports. Her call for collaboration between sports organizations and educational institutions reflects a growing understanding that grassroots development is the foundation of sporting success.
