Moroccan fencers said on Monday they were impressed by the staff of the Beijing Olympic Village.

"I was especially impressed by people in the Village. They are very good educated, always smiling," said Abdelillah Zaji, coach of the Moroccan fencing team.

"I like their discipline", he added.

It's his second participation in the Olympics for Rami Aissam who has been four years ago in Athens.

"It's better than in Athens," he said.

The Beijing Olympic Village is located in the extreme-north of the central axis that traverses the city of Beijing.

"I'm happy to find a muslim restaurant in the Village. It's not the same style of cooking as in my country. But I can find everything I like," said Zaji.

Under Zaji, Morocco's fencing will be represented by two athletes, one is Rami Aissam who will participate in the men's individual epee, the other is Ali Lahossine in foil.

"Ali occupies now 46th place in the world ranking, I hope he can get us a medal", said Zaji.

The Moroccan fencers train every day in the Fencing Hall of the National Convention Centre, but they still could find time to do some shopping in the city of Beijing.

Zaji has already visited Zhongguancun Village. He wants to buy some household electronics.

"I have the name card of a businessman. I think I will go back to him later," he said.

(Xinhua News Agency August 4, 2008)