More than a hundred children aged 8 to 15 from two barangays here joined the Kurash Sports Clinic to promote self-defense, discipline, and sportsmanship.

Kurash national coach Jenielou Mosqueda of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) said Wednesday the training began on April 9 and is scheduled to run until May 28.

“Every Tuesday and Thursday, we conduct training in Barangay Daliao, and every Wednesday in Barangay Tagurano, both in Toril,” she told the Philippine News Agency.

Mosqueda said the program helps children stay active and away from excessive cellphone use while teaching them vital life skills.

She explained that Kurash is a modern international sport that focuses on throwing techniques, balance, and control.

“There is no locking, which makes it safe for children. They must first learn the basics of properly pinning down their opponent without getting injured,” she added.

The clinic also serves as a scouting ground for potential players following the inclusion of Kurash in the Batang Pinoy competition.

The Davao Kurash Sports Association organized the event in partnership with the Aktibo Dabawenyo Program and the Davao City Sports Development Division.

National coach Jackielou Escarpe said the first batch of participants is currently part of the preparation for the Batang Pinoy selection process.

Escarpe noted that the free training could open opportunities for Dabawenyo athletes to eventually compete in the Southeast Asian Games, Asian Games, and World Games. (PNA)