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SAMJ: South African Medical Journal

On-line version ISSN 2078-5135
Print version ISSN 0256-9574

SAMJ, S. Afr. med. j. vol.100 n.12 Pretoria Dec. 2010

 

CORRESPONDENCE

 

A South African doctors' team in the World Cup?

 

 

To the Editor: I wish to bring to the attention of readers an opportunity for them to play international football in the next medical world cup! How would you like to play against Brazil, Germany or Great Britain?

For many, football is a passion that begins shortly after taking their first steps. Medicine is another passion, finding expression later in life. These two drives often compete, with usually one prevailing. It is with great pleasure that The World Medical Football Federation seeks to carry on the tradition of uniting medicine and football. The Federation has been growing year after year, and is a truly international social, professional and sporting amalgamation.

I was involved in putting together a group of 20 British doctors in 2006, and we entered the competition in Germany. Since then, we have played annually in Australia, Lithuania, South Korea and Austria. The XVII Global Congress on Medicine and Health in Sport, and World Football Championship of Medical Teams, takes place on 23 -30 July 2011 in Manchester, UK.

The week involves a medical conference with speakers from each country on some mornings, and the teams taking to the field in the afternoons, playing six 11-a-side matches in 7 days. The football is competitive but, with rules such as 'There must be at least 3 outfield players over the age of 40', also aims to be enjoyable. Many delegates bring their families, and there is a great atmosphere in the hotel and at the daily social activities.

If there are any interested doctors in South Africa who were inspired by the South African World Cup, please contact me for more details about joining us next year in England. We have most of the continents represented, with the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Australasia, but we are missing Africa! Please have a look at our website (www.britishmedicalfootballteam.co.uk) to see what's planned, and consider being part of this fantastic event. I look forward to answering any further questions.

 

Paul Fourie
Blackburn, UK
(formerly Springs, RSA)
paul.fourie@nhs.net>

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