Z_CARD: WHY EVERY FOOTBALLER IN KENYA MUST HAVE IT

The Z-Card, formulated by the International Federation of Professional Footballers, generally referred to as FIFPRO, helps football players in Kenya to understand their profession in a better way.

If you are a player, ensure you get to go through it and keep it safe.

WHAT DOES THE Z-CARD ENTAIL?

The Z-Card entails six different themes which include topics on;

1. Contracts- A player should understand his contractual obligations before signing for a club. They should also be keen on who represents them as an agent, as many scrupulous of them exist.

2. Union Member- The player should ensure they are registered and their details kept up to date with their union. They should seek support from their unions for services offered and also ensure they benefit from the different programs & training offered.

3. Player Conduct- Football remains a profession like any other job. Players are guided on how to behave themselves on and off the pitch.

4. Health and Lifestyle- As a player, are you cognizant of what you always eat? All tips and advice on nutrition are included here (including what to take before and after a match or training session).

Also, how long do you rest (Including sleep)? Players should always ensure they rest maximumly to help in recovery.

5. Risks- A player should not subject their career to short life spans by engaging in unlawful vices including Match fixing, doping, or criminal activities.

6. Communication- As a player, be careful with how you communicate, including how you represent yourself on social media or the press.

As briefly highlighted, it is important for players to conduct themselves professionally since discipline is important to bolster their careers to higher levels.

The Z-Card is easy to read and understand, with each theme arranged nicely coupled with pictograms, a short, direct, and instructive piece of text, and a message by a well-known and universally respected player.