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Youth Development

Deen & Sports

Connecting faith with discipline, teamwork, and character through basketball, MMA, archery, and boxing.

Serves

Youth ages 8–18

Cadence

Weekly practices, seasonal leagues

Since

2020

How it started

Most of our boys love sports, so we embed Islamic principles in them. Imam Amir Rashad started the “Deen Team” in 2020.

What it produces

  • Youth off the street and inside a structured weekly rhythm
  • Coaches who double as trusted adults and mentors
  • Measurable improvement in discipline, attendance, and character

What it is

Deen & Sports is an experiential learning program that teaches Islamic values through sports and physical training — basketball, MMA, archery, and boxing. Structured activities connect faith with discipline, teamwork, and personal development.

Through this model, youth are introduced to Islamic manhood in a fun, active, purpose-driven environment that builds character on and off the field.

Archery and equestrian-adjacent skills echo prophetic tradition; basketball, boxing and MMA meet Oakland youth where they already are.

Milestone

May 2026 — First Inter-Masjid Basketball Tournament

The first annual Inter-Masjid Basketball Tournament was held May 15–17, with eight masjids participating.

Inside a typical
session

01

Warm-up and du'a

Every practice begins with intention and remembrance.

02

Training

Skill drills and conditioning led by qualified coaches.

03

Short reminder

Five minutes of deen tied to what happened on the court.

04

Scrimmage

Applied teamwork, sportsmanship, and accountability.

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Girls & Women

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Qur'an & Education

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