Interview
Shirzanan: Iran’s boating federation this year held its first Canoe Polo league. One of the best players of the league this year was Zahra Alizadeh the goalkeeper of Khorassan Razavy team. She was chosen as the best goalkeeper of the year. She is 27 and she has a daughter who is only 6 months old. She remembers, “ My dauthere was only 20 days old when I had to attend the first match of the league.”
When did you start rowing and boating?
It was in 2004 when I was 23. Before that I was in Judo, taekwondo and Futsal teams. I started practice rowing for my arms.
Then how come you chose rowing as your main field?
my coach said I am talented and I was good as a goalkeeper. I first got invited to our province team and then to Iran women’s national team.
How come you chose to be a Goalkeeper?
I had stronger hands so naturally that helps. This season 12 of my long passes were ended as goals. I also score 4 goals myself.
You just gave birth before the league started; did you have any practices?
Not much. I had a 20 day old baby and I benefited from my previous practices and experiences. I was out of balance and much heavier than before.
How did you bear being far from your daughter?
It was very hard. I couldn’t take her with me. so I left her with my mom. But I would long for her every moment. My husband loves my field and he is very supportive. I wanted to quit my professional sport but he didn’t let me.”
What is your future plan?
When my dither gets a bit older I will start my practices again.
How do you evaluate the league this year?
It was a very strong and tough league. Our main opponent was Qazvin team.
Did you feel your team would become the champion?
I thought we will be semi finalist but after we started I saw that championship is not that far.
How was the level of referees?
The first round was not that good. But the second round everything was much better.
How do you see the sponsors?
Their presence shows that Canoe Polo has increased its place. Now we have an sponsor because we were the champions.


