Photo via San Francisco Gate
With the 2012 Summer Olympics quickly approaching, you’ll notice the sports media world ramp up its coverage of nations, teams, and persons of interest. For example, yesterday, I came across a brief video about Afghanistan’s female boxing team training for the Olympics and setting their sights on a gold medal.
This story took me by surprise. Call me ignorant, but when I think of Afghan women, the first thing that still comes to mind is them living in an oppressive society, despite the ousting of the Taliban. But, since Afghanistan’s new found liberation from the Taliban’s tyrannical regime, women are now empowered and somewhat encouraged to not only represent their country, but to do so in a “masculine” sporting event like boxing.
Although, not everyone in the conservative society has accepted the cultural shift. Some of the women have received threats because of their participation in the sport. However, their will to compete hasn’t waned. You’ll quickly recognize the women in the video possess as much pride, dedication, and competitive spirit as you’d expect from any Olympic hopeful.
Reuters reporter Sunita Rappi discusses Afghanistan’s female boxing team as they look to make history in London this summer.