Saina Soltanipour, a young Zoroastrian athlete, has achieved significant accomplishments in the Kyokushin karate discipline through her dedication and hard work.
Amordad conducted an interview with this promising young Zoroastrian athlete to learn when and how she became interested in this sport and to hear her advice for other young people, especially Zoroastrian youth. The conversation is detailed below:
To start, could you introduce yourself?
I am Saina Soltanipour, born on Esfand 26, 1386 (March 16, 2008). I am studying painting at Salari Art School and began practicing Kyokushin karate in 1399 (2020).
How did you become interested in this sport?
Since I was passionate about martial arts and my grandfather (Shihan Iraj Soltanipour, Osu) was highly successful in this field, I became even more drawn to it. My internal motivation stemmed from following in my grandfather’s footsteps.
Can you tell us about your athletic achievements?
In kata competitions, I secured second place once and third place another time. In national kumite competitions, I won one gold medal and came in second place twice. In provincial kumite competitions, I earned three bronze medals and one silver medal. However, not all of these have been officially announced on websites.
At what point did you start refereeing in this sport?
It has been a year since I started professional referee training. I have refereed twice in national competitions and once in a provincial competition.
Have you considered obtaining a coaching certification in this sport? What is your overall vision for the future?
I am very interested in coaching and would be delighted to teach this beneficial sport to others.
What advice do you have for young people?
Anyone who wants to enter this discipline must set aside concerns about health—after all, Kyokushin means fighting with bare hands.
Final thoughts:
I hope everyone strives hard and, regardless of the field they choose, approaches it with perseverance and determination. Never stop trying and working hard.
