Sports has always been a cornerstone in our community and we have no shortage of inspiration to draw from with our beloved Mowlana Hazar Imam also being an Olympic athlete! This venture also brought back s fond memories of the Jubilee games and the competitive spirit, and unity that we experienced as a Jamat because of it.
Normally ‘gaming’ is seen as screen time for kids. But you will be happily surprised to to discover just how much skill is required in gaming. It requires players to keep track of multiple things in their minds, move rapidly, strategize and make split second decisions all at once.
Today eSports or electronic sports are professional, organized video gaming competitions where professional gamers play video games against one another competitively. In fact, professional players can earn millions between prize money, advertising endorsements and salaries.
Furthermore, there are many resources and tools that are available to help mitigate some of the risks of digital world and to educate players on responsible gaming.
The eSports phenomenon has truly gone global and has generated tremendous opportunities - new qualifications are being designed to support long term careers in eSports.
Gaming can help increase perceptual skills, decision making, speed of processing and multitasking. Gaming can even improve players’ moods, promote relaxation and ward off anxiety. The key is in what type of gaming you’re engaged in and eSports is definitely a great medium because just like in physical play, one must understand the sport, the strategies to ‘make plays’, anticipate the opponents moves, and have a constant awareness of everything happening in the field of play.
What’s even more important during this unprecedented time, is that eSports creates connections with one another by enabling one to build a network or community of people in a virtual setting that knows no physical boundaries. This is truly a platform that enables everyone - regardless of their age, gender, or geography to join in and have fun. And, if any of my Ismaili sisters are debating whether eSports is for you - make no mistake, there are some pretty amazing female eAthletes around the world. Saudi Arabian, Najd Fahd recently won the world FIFA eFootball playstation tournament. Over the next 2 months, there will be many ways for all of you to engage and participate in the Ismaili eFootball Cup. There is no better time than NOW, to pick up a new skill and give eSports a try. Make a family event out of it and compete against each other or join in and check out some of the virtual tournaments that will be broadcasted live. And inshallah, soon - when we all can get together, give eSports a try as a fun group activity at your next [dawat]!
Visit our registration website and sign up to be a player or a coach. You can also join in on the fun as a virtual spectator and cheer your favorite players on!
Also if you are interested in participating as a volunteer please register here
