Ensuring Safety on the Field: SAFA’s Approach to Medical Emergencies in Amateur Leagues

• Dr Thulani Ngwenya outlined measures to address medical emergencies in amateur leagues
• The ability of small clubs to afford medical provisions remains a pressing concern for SAFA
• A recent incident during the Nedbank Cup brought attention to the role of medical teams

South Africa Football Association's Chief Medical Officer, Dr Thulani Ngwenya, has highlighted the organization's proactive measures to mitigate medical emergencies within amateur leagues.

Despite financial constraints faced by clubs in SAFA leagues and the Hollywoodbets Super League, he has stressed the importance of preparedness and prevention.

Regardless of the level, football matches occasionally witness players collapsing due to various factors.

A recent incident during the Nedbank Cup last 16 match between Orlando Pirates and Hungry Lions at Orlando brought attention to the critical role of medical teams.

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However, the ability of clubs to afford similar medical provisions remains a pressing concern. Ngwenya made clear the initiatives undertaken by the association to address these challenges.

"With our SAFA Leagues, because of the financial implications, we have made it compulsory for every player to do thorough medical training during pre-season. This also includes an ECG [electrocardiogram] at the SAFA league and Hollywoodbets, a basic requirement. That is the first step because we believe that prevention is better than cure," he explained, as quoted by Far Post.

Furthermore, he underscored the necessity of an ambulance presence at every game, which is essential for prompt response to medical emergencies. Moreover, hosting teams are encouraged to coordinate with local clinics or hospitals to ensure additional support if needed.

While hospitals may not deploy personnel due to resource constraints, each team is urged to have at least one doctor present to attend to players' medical needs, as reported by SAFA.

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Reflecting on recent incidents, he acknowledged a decline in collapses, particularly among younger athletes, attributing it to proactive measures implemented. Despite increased participation in SAFA leagues, the incidence of collapses remains significantly lower compared to professional leagues.

However, challenges persist, primarily concerning resource availability. Ngwenya stressed strict adherence to medical clearance protocols during player registrations, preventing unauthorized participation. He cautioned against falsifying medical forms, emphasizing the legal liabilities faced by practitioners who provide inaccurate assessments.

Player Collapses at Motsepe Foundation Championship

Sports Brief reported that Tiklas Thutlwa collapsed during a Motsepe Foundation Championship clash that would eventually end in a 1-1 draw.

It was a moment of great concern during an encounter between Black Leopards and Casric Stars at Malamulele Stadium in Limpopo.

It is believed that the brutally hot weather conditions eventually overwhelmed Thutlwa.