The week-long learning experience proved to be an excellent platform for the four participants to gain exposure to multiple disciplines of sports medicine, ranging from surgical procedures and physiotherapy to sports nutrition and sports psychology, under the supervision of leading medical experts from the renowned institution.

The comprehensive curriculum also allowed the participants to delve into several specialisation areas which include performance analysis, injury prevention, and rehabilitation.

Among the many highlights of the programme was the delegates’ active participation in on-field activities during Indian Super League side Chennaiyin FC’s ties against East Bengal FC and Hyderabad FC, which offered valuable insights into the real-time application of sports science in elite football settings.

SRCSS Director Prof. Arumugam Sivaraman said: “It was a privilege to collaborate with the AFC and contribute to advancing sports science education and professional development in football.

 

“We are dedicated to supporting the AFC’s mission of advancing football development across Asia and looking ahead, we are excited about the potential for deeper collaboration with the Confederation through joint research initiatives designed to advance sports medicine on the Continent.”

 

Representing the United Arab Emirates Football Association, Ms. Laila Tomaz said: “Thanks to the AFC and the SRCSS, we got an ideal learning opportunity which not only enhanced our personal growth but also fostered a deeper understanding of global best practices, which will help us elevate athlete care in our respective Member Associations (MAs).”            

         

In 2024, the APTTFM was hosted in five different AFC MAs, namely, Qatar, Thailand, Hong Kong, China, UAE, and India, and benefitted 19 participants from 17 MAs.

 

Established in 2011, the APTFFM is a key pillar in the AFC’s unwavering commitment towards advancing the best healthcare standards for players in Asia and strengthening the Confederation’s Vision to ensure the success of Asian teams on the global stage.