“Qatar is a nation that is still relatively young but sport has always been the backbone of the country,” said Games official Wael Barghouti.
The article below from the Peninsula totally contradicts the statement above from Wael Barghouti. When has sports EVER had anything to do with Qatar. Watching Tennis from the VIP lounge doesn't count. The Nationals don't seem to have any interest for sports. Even the parents of all the fat, lazy kids don't see any value in sports activities. I think he means obesity and diabetes is the backbone of Qatar

Schoolchildren losing interest in sports classes
Web posted at: 11/19/2006 8:16:59
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA • Schoolchildren’s craze for new-age games coupled with their parents' reluctance to send the children to sports classes, have reduced these classes into mere fun hours.

Students, with their addiction to computer and various electronic games are fast losing their interest in sports classes. Their parents also think attending sports classes is sheer waste of time, reports Al Sharq quoting various teachers and experts.

Said Mariam Mohammed Abdullah, Curriculum expert, Supreme Education Council (SEC): "There was a time when sports classes were considered to be one of the most exciting hours at schools. Now, students find little interest in these classes, and are not voluntarily participating in games. With the authorities deciding to do away with the system of awarding marks for the performance in sports class, parents believe there is no point in their children attending these classes", she said.

Sports and games play a very important role in shaping up the personality of students. Unfortunately, parents forget this fact. Schools should convince parents about the importance of these classes, said Mariam Mohammed Abdullah.

She also wanted schools to consider the common talent and interests of a particular batch of students, before planning activities for them.

Nazami Helmi Al Jamal, Educational Supervisor, who cited the importance of sports and games in schools, wanted authorities concerned to convince parents about their importance.

Thamir Saeed Al Ahmari, a school principal said the ministry of education is offering all supports to the schools for the promotion of sports and games. "We have talented teachers and efficient coaches. But the response from students are not encouraging", he said.