This Jalandhar student secured 1st position in kickboxing at 13th District Jalandhar Kickboxing Championship

All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy is a maxim that every school should focus on. Value addition that any sport adds to life cannot be undermined, therefore a school that believes in building a wholesome personality is always looked upon including Apeejay Schools. Consequently, it is not surprising that a student from Apeejay School, Tanda Road — Dhritil Gupta, class III student secured the first position in kickboxing at 13^th District Jalandhar Kickboxing Championship. 

In a candid interview, he says that his coach at school has imbibed true fairness and sportsmanship spirit in him.

Who inspired you for kickboxing?

My mother inspired me to pursue this sport. I have been practicing kickboxing for the last two years since the age of six. She is the only driving force behind my achievements in this sport. I also want to mention that my mother is the role model.

 What is your training regime?

I practice kickboxing at home. I have made a special training spot where there is a mirror. I practice this sport in front of that mirror daily. Every Monday, at school, we have one long Physical Training class and I practice kickboxing with my coach during that time.

Any special diet/food you eat?

I include lots of dry fruits to maintain my energy and strength levels. Cashews and almonds are my most favourite go to snacks. Other than that I drink a lot of milk and eat butter, which helps in making my bones grow stronger so that I can perform my sport tactics well. It is very important to have a healthy body to succeed in kickboxing.

 How do you balance studies and sports?

I devote an hour daily to my studies and then only begin my sports practice. After I finish my studies, I start with my kickboxing practice for two hours.

How has kickboxing impacted your life?

I feel so happy and confident from within since the time I have started training for this sport. I plan to continue this sport for as long as I can.

How has the school helped in honing your skills?

My trainer at school, Yadvinder sir, encourages me to keep pursuing this sport and never give up. He keeps pushing me to improve my performance so that I can rise in this sport eventually. Sir has particularly explained to me the rules of this sport and it’s mandatory to follow all of them strictly. Few of them are never to fight or attack aggressively, it’s not allowed to hit on the back, and we can only counter the attack or make the first move on the front part of the body.

 Who is a good sportsman?

A player who maintains consistency in his performance is a good sportsman. To practice well for the sport, power and hard work is required. I love eating lots of curd and milk products, they are my most loved food dishes.

 Are your parents supportive?

They have been extremely supportive throughout my kickboxing journey. They encourage me to keep striving hard and even used to pick and drop me for practice sessions.