The dropping out of promising young athletes from sports when they grow up is a phenomenon that can be prevented. The topic was discussed by Artur Grosu, head of the Moldovan National Muay Thai Federation, during a press conference at IPN.

According to Artur Grosu, the problem is that child athletes are taken care of by their parents, but when they grow up they have to earn their own money and performance sports here offer few opportunities.

A possible solution would be combining amateur and professional sports. It is certainly possible in the case of Muay Thai, as there no restrictions keeping fighters from participating in professional tournaments such as boxing.

Andrei Grosu, the coach of the national Muay Thai team, brought up the example of the Fighting & Entertainment Association (FEA), which holds the KOK and EAGLES tournaments, thus helping to keep athletes in the sport. Participants in these competitions fight professionally and are financially backed by sponsors.

According to the coach, an athlete needs at least five years of training in order to achieve a proper level. Muay Thai is not as dangerous as other sports, as the focus is on the athletes’ safety. They are properly equipped and injuries are rarer than in football, for example. Andrei Grosu encouraged parents to enroll their children in Muay Thai classes, but only after they turn six.

Federation chairman Artur Grosu thanked all the involved parties – the government, the coach, the parents – for contributing to Moldova’s historic results at the World Championships for juniors, held in Bangkok, Thailand, between 3-11 August. Our fighters won two gold and three silver medals, as well as the Rising Star award. Moldova was ranked 7th among 86 participating countries.

The next Muay Thai tournament is the National Championships for seniors and juniors this fall. Details regarding the competition will be later published on the Federation’s website muaythai.md.