UEFA medical Congress under the Cross everything was perfect!: 'Top level, everything was perfect!'

In an interview with bayer04.de, Dr. Dittmar plus Dr. Zoran Bahtijarevic (Head of the medical and anti-doping section at UEFA) and Professor Markus Walden (Head of the Football Research Group and chair of the ECIS meetings) provided insights into the internationally recognised UEFA study and the annual final meeting. They also talked about this year's focus and key points. Dr Dittmar also talked about his role as the host.

Dr Bahtijarevic, a question right at the start: What exactly is the Elite Club Injury Study and what's the purpose of this study?

Dr Bahtijarevic: The ECIS is the most important study on injuries in the world of sport and not just football. It was started over 30 years ago and for a long time carried out under the leadership of Professor Jan Ekstrand before he was followed in that position by Professor Walden. The study is the flagship of research and provides us with clear data as well as important conclusions on the epidemiology and many other aspects of injuries. It contributes to better understanding of injuries and also as a sort of instrument that helps us in the prevention of injuries.

Professor Walden: Within the scope of the Elite Club Injury Study We investigate the truly important and interesting research questions in the area of sports injuries. The study also helps us determine whether they is in an increase of reduction in the number of certain injuries. The ECIS provides important insights on patterns of injury, rehabilitation and many other aspects in the area of sports injuries. For example, the study has shown that lower injury rates at a club are combined with the success of the team, as was the case with Bayer 04 this year. The study has developed over time and we are trying to improve it every time to stay in the vanguard of research.

How significant are the annual final meetings on this UEFA study?

Professor Walden: These meetings were started about ten years after the study began. They are very significant because they increase the participation of clubs on the subject of injuries. The key insight is the mutual exchange of knowledge, experience and expertise and these meetings guarantee that. The doctors from all European top teams come here. Everybody speaks to each other, there is an open community and there are no secrets as the health of the players is the most important thing. Teams can submit their data each year and that extends our existing database. Then possible trends can be identified.

Dr Dittmar: The annual meetings are actually an outstanding opportunity to network with each other. In addition to the scientific part of the study, networking is one of the most important and helpful aspects.

There were very few injured players at Bayer 04 last season. What's that down to?

Dr Dittmar: Last season we worked brilliantly as a functioning unit and not just during the season but also everybody did very good work together in the pre-season. As a medical team, we understood the requirements of the coach (Xabi Alonso, ed.) and in turn the coach understood our needs. We have a very good relationship and Xabi took our advice very seriously when we had to recommend him not using a player. In addition, we had a good squad with lots of players of equal quality. In a group like that that obviously reduces the stress for each individual. At the end of the day, there's always a bit of luck and how many players get injured.

Dr Bahtijarevic: The low number of injured players at Bayer 04 was definitely a reason for success this year. In general, our study shows there is a limited constant reduction in the number of injuries in professional sport regardless of the high strain on players. That is also due to today's players being very well educated and knowing how the can develop. Equally the coaches and fitness coaches plus the medical departments. An important aspect for the success of Bayer 04 was also a consistency in the area of fitness provision. The study shows that if certain positions are changed during the season then the number of injuries increases. That was a factor that made the difference between Bayer 04 and other teams last season as Bayer 04 had that continuity. I think that played a not insignificant part to the success on the pitch.

For the first time, this year's meeting saw a combination of the ECIS for men and women. What does that mean exactly and what insights have been gained?

Professor Walden: Of course, we first have to evaluate the results and data gained this year. One thing is certain: The conclusions from a study on men's football cannot be carried over to women's football. The difference in the number and frequency of certain injuries is too big for that. Bayer 04 Leverkusen is an extremely important club from a research perspective for us as there is both a professional men's and women's team there.

Dr. Dittmar, you were the host at the congress this year as medical director at Bayer 04. How much are you pleased and honoured that Leverkusen was the venue for the first time?

Dr Dittmar: Of course, I'm very happy about it. I was born here in Leverkusen and I've worked for Bayer 04 for over 20 years. Leverkusen is not a city comparable with big ones such as London or Paris. Therefore we feel very honoured and are proud that we were able to stage this year's congress. We did our best to ensure that was a good experience for everybody.

Dr Bahtijarevic: I can vouch that the Congress this year in Leverkusen was organised at a top level. Everything was perfect, particularly the hospitality. We all felt very welcome.

Professor Walden: Once again, it was very pleasant to work with Dr Dittmar and the club. We are really pleased.