Ghana’s male U-17 team doctor, Ernest Anim Opare, has successfully participated in a 4-day medical seminar organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The seminar, held under the auspices of the West African Football Union (WAFU) Zone B took place in the Burkina Faso capital, Ouagadougou, from April 23-26, 2024.
Dr Anim Opare was among a cohort of high-profile medical doctors that took part in the workshop in the build-up to the 2024 CAF/WAFU-B U17 tournament to be held in Ghana from May15-28 in Accra.
The seminar focused on the use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and fitness protocols captured in the Pre-Competition Medical Assessment (PCMA) in determining the eligibility of the U-17 players.
The CAF executive decision (2023) regarding player eligibility for U17 tournaments remains in effect, emphasizing the use of MRI screenings to verify player age.
It was reiterated at the seminar that, for the qualifying phase, an eligibility test will be compulsorily performed for all the participating teams before the start of matches.
All tests will be performed according to the CAF protocol in health facilities and duly accredited centres with MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) equipment.
CAF reserves the right to conduct the eligibility test (MRI) for the tournament as well as the final phase for the twelve teams qualified to the CAF U17 AFCON tournament, where all costs of the MRI tests will be covered by CAF.
Again, after performing MRI tests for participating teams, no country will be allowed to replace an ineligible player.
The seminar touched on the importance of team doctors in educating players about the dangers and consequences of doping violations. Doctors are also to provide assent for minors selected for doping tests and to stay informed about the sample collection process and anti-doping procedures to support their players effectively.
With the conclusion of this medical seminar, it is anticipated that all participating teams are up to speed with all medical requirements and protocols for the upcoming WAFU B U-17 tournament.
