Following its success at the SEA Games, the Ju-Jitsu Federation of Cambodia has announced that it will sell replicas of the “rashguard” shirts worn by its team, most notably gold medal winning ju-jitsu star Jessa Khan.
The specially designed shirts were illustrated with stylised images of sculptures from one of the Kingdom’s cultural treasures. The design, by artist Chifumi, was inspired by the bas-reliefs on the eastern side of the Angkor Wat Temple.
“All profits from the sale of our replica rashguards will go to the ju-jitsu federation, and support the development of our athletes,” said the federation.
The federation added that the rashguards would be the same as the one worn by fan favourite Jessa as she took gold in the women’s under 52kg no gi ne-waza against the Philippines’ Margarita Prado on May 7.
“Next week, the black based rashguards will go on sale, please stay tuned for further information,” it said.
Further details regarding sizing, pricing or retail outlets were unavailable at the time of print.
Artist Chifumi, who designed the jersey, said his creative team spent around a week preparing the illustrations and designing the rashguards, in consultation with the federation.
“Cambodian youth are looking for popular figures and heroes that they can identify with. There is no doubt that Jessa Khan is the modern face of this sport,” he told The Post.
Chifumi added that Jessa’s victory is sure to inspire more young people to pursue ju-jitsu or other sports.
“Her victory also serves as a symbol of empowerment and representation of Cambodian youth. By achieving excellence in her sport, she has revealed that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve greatness if they are dedicated,” he said.
“Jessa’s achievements will inspire young Cambodians to embrace their culture heritage and find pathways to their own success through links to their roots,” he added.
