Defying Terror: Sayed Fawad and the Revival of Afghan Wrestling

The Maiwand Wrestling Club in Kabul, Afghanistan, reopened about six months after a devastating suicide attack by ISIL in September 2018 that killed at least 20 people and injured 70 others. Sayed Fawad, the head coach courageously returned to coaching, embodying the resilience of the Afghan wrestling community. The club implemented increased security measures and received support from international wrestling communities to rebuild. Many young wrestlers returned to train, viewing it as an act of defiance against terrorism and a way to honor the victims. The reopening of the club symbolizes the Afghan people's determination to preserve their cultural traditions and resist intimidation by terrorist attacks, highlighting the role of sports in healing and uniting communities affected by conflict.