A film about the role of "golf" in helping young Emiratis cope with the sterilization period

With the emergence of the new Corona virus pandemic at the beginning of this year, the UAE took swift measures to protect citizens and residents, which included closing schools, recreational and sports facilities.

And for a lot of people, especially young people, this was a challenging time.

They experienced social isolation away from friends, family, teachers, colleagues, and coaches, and were unable to participate in sporting and outdoor activities.

This was especially difficult for the younger members of the Emirates Golf Association, who used to train and play with each other six times a week.

In this regard, Shahd Al Suwaidi, a player of the UAE golf team, said: “The temporary closure during the sterilization period was very difficult for everyone, as there was anxiety and fear of people. We were not allowed to go to school or see our friends. We only had our close family members. Education at home and golf. "

The Emirates Golf Association and its coaches have used digital technology to help support their players, stay connected and stay competitive throughout the sterilization period.

This included organizing and directing virtual training sessions, one of which was hosted by Ian Poulter, global ambassador to DP World and the golf icon.

“Technology has really helped us,” said Abdullah Al Suwaidi, a junior member of the UAE national team and Shahd’s younger brother. "Internally and targeting external networks. The training session with professional Ian Poulter was a prominent event, as it was one of the things that helped me to maintain my enthusiasm and positivity."

Over time, golf became the ideal solution for Shahd and Abdullah, giving them both determination and purpose.

Team bonding and the support of their coaches have become an important factor in helping the young players deal with the temporary closure, while enabling them to develop a positive outlook on the new normal.  

Since the restrictions were eased and Dubai opened up, Shahd and Abdullah, along with their colleagues in the National Junior Development Program, began returning to the golf course to train and prepare for the championships.

The story of their use of sport and exercise to overcome the challenges of the ban has become an inspiring story that resonates with many people in the UAE and has been adapted as part of a short film produced and presented by DP World.

"We are committed to supporting and developing the next generation of Emirati talent through our strategic partnerships with the European Golf Tour and the Emirates Golf Association. We are also proud of the way these two young players have channeled their passion for golf in this way," said Danny Van Otterdijk, Senior Communications Officer at DP World. When we heard their story, we immediately wanted to share it and highlight the benefits of maintaining health and exercising even during these difficult times in our society and the world. "

DP World and the Emirates Golf Federation praised the positivity highlighted by the younger members of the Emirates Golf Association by launching a short film documenting their experience under the title 'Out of the Rough', to spread the message of optimism and patience around the world.

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