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Dr. Al Tayer discusses the application of professionalism in football at the 5th Dubai International Sports Conference

Dr. Tariq Bin Humaid Al Tayer, Chairman of the UFL, has urged all UFL Clubs to play their role in lifting the level of professionalism in football. He explained that the UFL is responsible for organizing the Etisalat Pro-League and other UFL competitions in agreement with the UAE FA, but the Professional League in this country would never realize its full potential unless the Clubs play a larger role in improving standards.

Speaking at the 5th Dubai International Sports Conference on Wednesday, Dr. Al Tayer said, "In conjunction with the UFL there are other authorities working closely with the clubs to assist them in raising their standards of professionalism". He hailed the important roles played by the Sports Councils in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah commenting that UAE football will continue to develop thanks to the assistance of such organisations.

The UFL Chairman also discussed a new project in development that is designed to introduce professionalism to the junior teams. He said, "This scheme concentrates on the early introduction of junior players to the clubs for academic study and playing football under the supervision of coaches who are specialised in training younger players. The aim is to teach them the principals of professionalism at an early age and this will help develop them into strong professional and even National team players in the future."

Dr. Al Tayer stated that he is in discussions with officials in the Ministry of Education, and he has also spoken to Yousuf Al Sarkal, Assistant Chairman of the Olympic Committee & Head of the AFC Olympic Committee, about activating this initiative.

Dr Al Tayer also discussed the challenge the League has with attracting fans, stating, "The UFL has suffered from low fan attendance, but I am delighted to report a significant  increase this season of more than 30%, with the average turnout close to four thousand spectators per match. When you look at the size of our population and compare this relatively to other Leagues such as Saudi Arabia we are actually in a good position".