Sam Durdin can’t comprehend playing competitive sport after fasting.
“It’s hard enough when you’re eating and drinking throughout the day, but competing after a day of nothing, I can’t imagine it,” Durdin told North Media.
“When I hear stories of NBA player Enes Kanter competing in the playoffs while fasting during Ramadan, it’s so impressive."
Kanter, centre for the Portland Trailblazers, competed in the finals but would fast from sun-up to sun-down.
That means no food, water or medication.
“Hearing about professional athletes like Kanter or Richmond’s Bachar Houli, competing while fasting is really inspiring whether you’re an athlete, Muslim or neither,” Hanad Hersi, The Huddle coordinator, commented.
“Seeing them do it definitely makes Ramadan cooler, and it also makes a tournament like The Huddle's soccer tournament a bit more interesting for young people.”
The Huddle's third annual Ramadan indoor soccer tournament was another huge success, taking place every Friday night during Ramadan.
Each night players and umpires would break their fast with friends and family, then get ready to play.
“Ramadan soccer is a good event for the youth and community to get together and showcase their talents,” referee Ismail Mohamud said.
“It’s great to get everyone together and have some fun, build relationships, and play a competition.”
The comradery displayed likened to Ramadan.
“Ramadan is a beautiful thing. We have the one month that brings the whole Muslim community together,” Mohamud explained.
“This tournament brings everyone in this area and other areas, together. It’s a beautiful thing that’s all I can say.”
These kinds of community gatherings, extra special for player Mahad Farah.
“You don’t see the community really coming together on a Friday night like this too often, so it’s a fantastic feeling when it happens, she said.
"I love The Huddle and what they do for the community."
