Police’s Kasingye calls for player counselling
Police FC chairman Kasingye (R) says his club is ready for any eventuality post the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure that striker Derrick Kakooza (L) and his teammates can play with less fear and distractions. PHOTOS/JOHN BATANUDDE & EDDIE CHICCOPHOTO/JOHN BATANUDDE
It would be overly optimistic for one to rule out any eventualities when testing for Covid-19 starts on sports activities resumption.
Actually, better preparation - rather than worry about potential positive cases as a result of mass testing of athletes - wins all day.
That is why Police FC chairman Asan Kasingye believes that on top of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), all actors should have their mind set for anything.
“This is what I’m going to do for our players as we start training,” Kasingye told Daily Monitor, “We are going to get someone qualified to talk to them about the whole thing.
Protect one, protect all
“For example, the players and coaching staff and all involved need to know that anyone can catch the virus, and need to be prepared on how to take the news when it comes.
“Also, players need to know that in protecting themselves, they are protecting everyone else.
“How do they live before, and after games? Of course I know it is difficult to police them but somehow a riot act will have to be read to them. However, at the end of the day, it starts with you and me.” Kasingye, later speaking on NTV Press Box on Monday night, also shared his struggles as he battled Covid-19 himself.
“I wouldn’t wish it on anyone and am telling you it’s not a nice a experience,” he narrated.
“So the best we can do is protect ourselves and live responsibly.
“Also, I wish to tell you that anyone can get it and we should not stigmatize those that get it.
Big appeal
“So, I’d like to appeal to other clubs and Fufa and all involved to look at getting psychosocial support for the players as we resume action. “The players and all involved need it.”
Ahmed Hussein, the Fufa head of Communications, was on the same show. Hussein on later told Daily Monitor that Kasingye’s suggestion was “a brilliant one” and one they would have to consider as Fufa and stakeholders.”
President Museveni on Sunday lifted the lock on regulated sporting activities since the lockdown in March for as long games happen without fan attendance.
The players, coaching staff and involved administrators will also have to be tested for Covid-19 at least 72 hours before action, with the test repeated every 14 days.
