What are our athletes doing in wartime? This is Beirut met these athletes whose activities have been brought to a halt by the ongoing conflict in Lebanon. Today, talented futsal player Marie-Joe Wakim shares her thoughts on the challenges she faces and how she is adapting to these difficult times.
How are you experiencing this period of war and what impact has it had on your daily life as an athlete?
We had been waiting several years for the national team to be reconstituted, and the announcement of the Asian qualifiers in January gave us the motivation to work hard and train effectively in the hope of qualifying for the Asian Futsal Cup in May. However, the war disrupted our training schedule considerably. At first, we felt overwhelmed and anxious, and many of us couldn't attend training sessions because our parents didn't feel safe letting us leave home. In time, we managed to resume training as regularly as possible, given the circumstances. But even though we were physically present, the stress of everything going on around us made it difficult to concentrate fully. We try to see training as a way to escape and reset, but it hasn’t been easy for any of us.
What role do you think sport can play in Lebanon's post-war reconciliation and reconstruction?
In a country devastated by conflict, it can divert attention from differences to focus on common goals, encouraging teamwork and collaboration. As a futsal player, I've seen how playing together helps build trust and mutual respect. Sport also has the power to restore national pride, reminding us that despite difficulties, we can achieve great things as a united team. Beyond competition, sport teaches values such as discipline, commitment, resilience and unity. All these qualities are essential for rebuilding and strengthening our society.
How do you see the future of sport in Lebanon once the situation stabilizes?
The recent reform of the Lebanese women's national futsal team is an important milestone, and I believe it has great potential for the future of the sport. If we achieve good results in the upcoming Asian qualifiers and qualify for the Asian Cup, this could be a strong source of motivation for relaunching futsal in Lebanon, especially for women. Success on the international stage will not only raise the profile of the sport, but also inspire young girls and women to play futsal and other sports with confidence. This could help pave the way for greater investment in women's sports and create more opportunities for athletes to flourish. Although the road ahead is difficult, I am optimistic that this momentum will create lasting change, helping futsal to grow in Lebanon and inspiring the next generation of athletes to pursue their dreams.
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