The talented martial arts player from Saffron Town, Pampore, Pulwama district in south Kashmir, Maroof Hilal Sofi, has been awarded the National Icon Award in Sports. Known for his skillful martial arts, Maroof has represented India at different levels and won several medals. Maroof has been passionate about martial arts since he was a child. He started learning martial arts when he was 8 years old. Last year, he won a bronze medal in the 16th World Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation Championship in the Philippines. Winning any award means a lot. It gives a person confidence and contributes to his courage to show your skills better. Maroof received National Icon Award in Delhi in front of high-ranking officials.
Maroof has represented J&K in various national, state and international tournaments and has won medals consistently – 6 gold medals at national level and a bronze medal at international level. Currently, he works as the Head Coach of Thang Ta Academy, Pampore where he trains youngsters who are keenly interested in martial arts. Maroof believes that sports activities encourage physical fitness and prevents drug addiction among youngsters. There is a dire need for more indoor sports stadiums as during winter, players are unable to practice. Such facilities should be made available round-the-year so that athletes can practice well and excel more at various stages.