What is Ramadan?Every year, Muslims observe a month-long fast during the 9th month of the Islamic Calendar this is known as Ramadan (also called Ramadhan or Ramzan). Muslims believe that this month is filled with blessings, and it is appropriate to wish them well at the beginning of the month. Friendly words in any language are welcome, such as “I hope you have a blessed Ramadan,” or “may you have a peaceful Ramadan”. There are some common or traditional Arabic greetings that you can use, or might come across:

“Ramadan Kareem” (Noble (or generous) Ramadan) or “Ramadan Muburak” (Blessed Ramadan)

What happens during Ramadan?Ramadan is one of the 5 pillars of Islam (fundamental religious duties of Islam). This is a time where Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset with common practices including the fasting of both food and water, prayers, and recitation of the Quran/Koran (Islamic Holy Book) by Muslims. This month is believed to be when the Quran/Koran was revealed to the Prophet Mohammed.

Ramadan ends when the first crescent of the new moon is sighted again, marking the new lunar month’s start.

Some key phrases:Suhoor – This is a pre-fast meal before sunrise.

Iftar – This is the evening meal that breaks the fast. This is traditionally broken with 2 dates.

Tarawih – Special Ramadan prayers; these are held in Mosques every night of the month, during which a section of the Qur’an is recited.

Eid-al-Fitr – Is the Islamic holiday that marks the end of Ramadan.

Impact of Ramadan on Sport and Active Recreation:• The fasting of food and

water will mean that Muslims observing this will have less energy during the period of fasting.

• Religious events during this month may clash with training or game times, this does not indicate a lack of interest in the child’s participation.

• Dress requirements; many cultures require certain dress standards to be worn at all times. Although most clubs are not opposed to making

exceptions to the uniform to accommodate these (e.g. head scarf and long pants), many families are not aware of this. Ensure you let members know that cultural dress modification to the uniforms are welcome.

• Fear of discrimination; this can happen through careless comments from other parents, on the field and between players. Your club’s rules and actions when an incident occurs are important.

Some top tips to stay healthy during Ramadan:1) Avoid dehydration; load up on water before fasting, even when you’re not thirsty. You should be having at least 2 litres per day (or 8 big glasses) – avoid salty or sugary foods that will make you thirsty.

2) Don’t skip breakfast – Suhoor is at roughly 4.30am – don’t be tempted to press the snooze button! Make sure to have at least 2 glasses of water, and have some complex carbohydrates and protein and high water content fruit. Oatmeal with milk, eggs on toast, fruit salad are great options to start the day.

Department ofLocal Government, Sport and Cultural Industries

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