Imam Khomeini, the late founder of the Islamic Republic used to put emphasizes on promoting exercise, sports and healthy types of entertainment across schools, universities and all other institutions.
Imam himself had attached significance to exercise by regularly taking a walk and included it in his daily schedule. It has been truly said that a healthy man bears a healthy mind and soul.
Imam also encouraged athletics to win fame for the country by participating at international tournaments and world cups in various fields.
It is worthy to mention that the victory of the Islamic Revolution under wise leadership of Imam Khomeini put Iran back on track of scientific progress and Iran accomplished achievements in a vast range of fields including sports.
Iranian athletes, sportsmen and players have won international titles in international sports competition and have won a great reputation for the Islamic Republic and the Muslim world.
This comes as Iran men's national football team, domestically known as Team Melli, on Friday started its campaign at the 2018 Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup in Russia with a remarkable victory over Morocco.
Iranian players were gifted a 1-0 win over Atlas Lions in Saint Petersburg Stadium, when Moroccan striker Aziz Bouhaddouz thumped a powerful header into his own net five minutes into injury time on Friday evening.
Team Melli defended resolutely throughout the game, proving it was unreachable as North Africans sought to find a way in order to bury the ball in the back of the net.
At last, Iranian players successfully imposed themselves in the closing moments of the game, forcing their Moroccan opponents into making the tragic mistake.
Imam Khomeini used to meet and address sportsmen on several occasions and advised them to win fame and good name for the divine religion of Islam and the nation.
The late founder of the Islamic Republic expected sportsmen to boost and promote spirituality and moral values.
Imam Khomeini, the leader of contemporary Muslim world recommended them to decorate themselves with morality alongside improving and enhancing their professional skills and capabilities.
In addition to sports, Imam sought the sportsmen to take an active part in all religious, social, cultural arenas and contribute to raising awareness among the society, and be present in all fields.
Following the instructions and recommendation by Imam, the Iranian authorities have undertaken serious efforts and initiatives to make access of people from all walks of life to the sports complexes and facilities.
Imam believed that sportsmen also should play a key contribution towards solving the plight, sufferings and problems of the society.
It is a reality that the sports people have influence and loved by people, so they can play a very positive role in removing poverty and illiteracy from society. They can also be helpful in promoting and leading progress and development projects.
Several Islamic traditions also support the promotion of positive exercise and sports activities among the societies. The sports can also prevent people from indulging into laziness and idleness.