Ramadan: Student Caught Between Religion And Soccer

September 17, 2009 on WLWT News 5:

CINCINNATI -- When Ryle High School takes to the soccer field, there's more than just athletic drama playing out before the crowd. For one player, religion is also a factor.

Essam Elgusain is Muslim. He is currently observing Ramadan, which means he can't eat or drink anything from sunrise to sunset. Fasting is a challenge for Elgusain, who faces dehydration chasing down his opponents in the late summer heat.

When asked what the heat does to him, Elgusain said "It just makes me feel really tired and I get really weak. And occasionally I'll get muscle cramps."

Elgusain is faithful to his religion. He won't take even a sip of water until the sun goes down, no matter how tempting it might be. He said team water breaks are especially difficult.
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