Çisem Kaço from Türkiye is the YES Student of the Month
By: Alaa Albahrani (YES 2019-2020, Saudi Arabia, placed by ACES in Gresham, OR)
In the tranquil town of Gresham, Oregon, my journey as a sports enthusiast began unexpectedly. My host family was exceptionally athletic. My host mother, a volleyball coach, and my host father, a softball coach, welcomed me into a world where sports were a way of life. My three younger host sisters, each actively engaged in various sports, added to this dynamic environment. It was here that I discovered the power and potential of sports—a world that, until then, had been foreign to me.
Initially, I was a novice, with no understanding of sports. I vividly recall attending a volleyball game with my host grandmother, who patiently explained the rules and strategies of the game. This newfound exposure to sports was eye-opening. Family activities often included watching seasonal games such as basketball and American football, sparking my interest and expanding my knowledge.
The influence of my American host family was profound. I realized that sports were not merely physical endeavors but also crucial for developing mental strength, resilience, and various life and personal skills. This realization was transformative and set the stage for my journey back home to Saudi Arabia—a place where sports, especially for women, were still emerging.
Returning home, I faced a society where opportunities for women in sports were limited. However, inspired by my experiences in the U.S., I was determined to make a change. I started by taking up karate, gradually expanding my involvement in sports to include running. Driven by a passion to promote female participation in sports, I helped establish the first female runners' club in the Al-Hasa community.
This was only the beginning. A coach noticed my dedication and potential, inviting me to join the Al-Adalah club as an official track and field athlete specializing in the heptathlon. For two years, I trained and competed, initially finishing last in my first competition. Yet, I persevered. Last season, I proudly secured second place in the heptathlon at the Saudi National Athletics Championship for females.
Reflecting on my journey, I am deeply grateful for the life-changing opportunity the YES program provided. It opened doors I never imagined and instilled in me a passion for athletics that has transformed my life. Becoming an athlete has strengthened me both mentally and physically, teaching me to push beyond my limits. I have learned that our minds often surrender before our bodies do, and that we have untapped potential if we dare to challenge our biggest obstacle- our minds.
I am committed to inspiring other women to pursue sports and to discover the strength I found through athletics. Sports have taught me that everything is achievable if you dare to dream. My journey from a clueless spectator to a national champion is a testament to the power of opportunity, perseverance, and the transformative impact of the YES program.