Doha, Qatar (Feb 21, 2012) – ASPETAR (Qatar Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Hospital) offered support and advice in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) U-14 Football Festival 2012 that took place from 21st – 25th February. Throughout the event ASPETAR assisted and participated in a health and anti-doping awareness program specifically aimed towards the young players. Held on the fringes of the AFC U-14 Football Festival 2012 that took place at the technical venue of the Qatar Football Association, ASPETAR’s campaign featured demonstrations from researchers and included speakers from the medical institution. During the tournament, ASPETAR staff were also on hand to present their experiences in the treatment of athletes, but focused on increasing awareness of the young players on how to avoid injury and ways to deal with the consequences. Additionally, speakers warned participants of the dangers of drug use and doping, specifically within the sporting industry. Finally, in order to create better understanding amongst the individuals and appeal to the age group, the organization took advantage of an education model that ensured a fun and enjoyable learning experience for the young footballers. ASPETAR regularly provides important social and scientific information in health and anti-doping matters, including nutrition, personal hygiene, social and psychological, training, injury prevention, and doping and fitness. In alliance with AFC, ASPETAR aimed to raise awareness on prevention of injuries by promoting the importance of keeping young players sports careers injury free. The event further assisted in the organization’s overall mission of aiding athletes to reach their maximal potential and achieving their strategic objective of exchanging knowledge in sports medicine. Commenting on the event, ASPETAR CEO Dr. Khalifa Al-Kuwari said:

“ASPETAR is a strong partner to the AFC and we are proud to have participated in raising awareness of young footballers as far as injuries and doping is concerned. Our overall objective at ASPETAR is to assist athletes to reach their full potential”.