The UAE Pro League continued its media training programme for professional clubs’ players with sessions with first team & U-21 players at Al Wasl, Al Nasr, Khor Fakkan, Sharjah and Shabab Al Ahli Dubai Club between January 26-31 with the players actively engaged in the conversations.

The fourth edition of the players’ media training had kicked-off on January 19 with sessions at Al Dhafra, Al Jazira, Bani Yas, Al Wahda and Al Ain.

The UAEPL dedicated a large portion of the training to new media, with a presentation on social media stats, the involvement of players from across the globe and how players in the Arabian Gulf League can take advantage of these platforms. The presentation also covered the guidelines in line with the 10 traits outlined by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President of the UAE, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai for the Emirati character on social media in addition to the importance of players’ participation on digital platforms, interacting with fans, the club and teammates.

The media training delivered by TV presenter Lutfi Al Zoabi and the media and social communication team at the UAEPL, included practical applications on press and TV interviews, how to prepare for them, the art of answering interview questions and other skills the players should acquire.

The UAEPL had won the AFC League Development Programme award for its pioneering “Players’ Media Training Programme” in its inaugural version in the 2016/17 season.

The programme is part of the UAEPL’s efforts to enhance the culture of professionalism within the AGL, raising awareness amongst the league’s players with the importance of media in the life of athletes, and equipping the players with the basic skills of dealing with the various media platforms.