A specialized session on "Methods for Physical and Mental Care of Children in Football" was held

A specialized session on "Methods for Physical and Mental Care of Children in Football" was held to explain the principles of protecting children in grassroots football. The session took place on October 26, 2025, at the Tehran International Exhibitions Center.

Due to the growing youth football scene in Iran and increasing participation of children in clubs and schools, the physical and mental health of young players has become a national, ethical, and professional priority. Experts were invited to discuss principles of child protection and share international experiences.

Dr. Seyed Mohammad Kazem Vaezi Mousavi, a leading sports psychology researcher, emphasized ethical boundaries in dealing with child footballers, the importance of actively involving children, youth, and families in sports decision-making, and identifying signs of psychological and physical abuse. He highlighted the roles of coaches, club officials, and educational bodies in timely prevention and intervention. Dr. Vaezi Mousavi also called for localizing international child protection principles into university programs and urged researchers in sports sciences, psychology, and child rights to contribute to building indigenous knowledge.

Dr. Ali Targali-Zadeh, technical and development director of the Football Federation, stressed implementing FIFA Guardians principles officially in club operations and balancing commercial interests with child welfare. He noted the importance of continual coach education, family interaction, comprehensive training programs, and institutionalizing child protection for sustainable development of youth football.

Mr. Ehsan Mohammadi, a child protection officer at AFC, highlighted coach training, family engagement, global educational frameworks, and strengthening confidential reporting pathways with collaboration from families and psychologists.

Mr. Iraj Ahmadi, a grassroots football child protection officer, identified economic and cultural barriers, and the lack of shared understanding among coaches, families, and club managers as main obstacles to protecting children's rights.

Dr. Rostam Alizadeh, the session head, concluded that child protection is not only a legal or ethical concept but an operational necessity for the future of Iranian football. From club frameworks to coaching and parenting education, and from international experiences to cultural challenges, protecting child footballers requires multi-level cooperation and collective commitment.