Senior Mustafa Mohajir was given the unique opportunity to spend his adolescence facing the wrath of discipline in a Muay Thai dojo, a reality abnormal for most children. Although momentary, his unique experience with the sport has contributed to shaping his overall world view and personality. Muay Thai is violent in nature, but it’s striking the balance between vengeance and peace.
“It was very nice because it was so intense but at the same time it was so relaxing,” Mohajir said.
Although he no longer participates, the experience was rewarding while it lasted, giving him a sense of personal accomplishment. Muay Thai is a sport that requires meticulous attention in both its physicality and mental state.
Mohajir was put in a unique position as he was participating in the activity as a child in a room predominantly full of highly experienced adults. The sport has provided him with confidence that aids in his everyday life.
“I was the youngest one there, so I was able to learn from a lot of people. Also, the instructor was able to walk around and help me with specific techniques,” Mohajir said.
He wasn’t the youngest by chance. He possessed unique qualities, making him eligible for participation in the intense sport.
“It’s not commercialized at the moment, so you can’t just pay to get in. For example, I had to do a trial and basically the instructor had to decide that I was a viable candidate to actually do it,” Mohajir said.
Because of the sport’s nature of exclusivity, it was ensured that the instruction Mohajir received was undivided and of high quality.
“The instructor gives you pretty specialized attention because they have a chain of understanding from their teachers. They can’t just teach anybody. They have to know what they’re doing,” Mohajir said.
Overall, Mohajir is grateful for the experience he’s had and the mainstream prominence his sport has gained.
“When I did Muay Thai, it was really nice because it was far removed from everything else. It’s becoming more popular now, but it’s still a thing where you have to find a certified dojo that does it,” Mohajir said.