Riga, Latvia – The Latvian Anti-Doping Agency (LADA) is inviting coaches, athletes, sports enthusiasts, and parents to register for the eighth annual “Patiess Sports” conference, themed “Sports as Value,” taking place online on April 11th. Since 2019, the conference has develop into a significant platform for fostering a fair, safe, and values-driven sporting environment in Latvia.
A Holistic Approach to Athlete Development
This year’s program is designed to provide a comprehensive gaze at athlete development, covering critical topics for daily work both on and off the field. The conference will address key areas ranging from medical competence to mental preparation, and even the role of discipline learned in sports in achieving success in other areas of life.
Medical Competence and Athlete Wellbeing
The conference will feature insights from leading medical professionals. Dr. Mārcis Jakovičs, a sports physician, will discuss the impact of high physical loads on immunity. Dr. Rūdolfs Vilde will illuminate the diagnosis of shortness of breath and responsible therapy approaches to avoid being flagged as doping. Attendees will also hear from Dr. Olga Boka-Veide, a gynecologist, who will address the specific health considerations for adolescent female athletes, and Dr. Ksenija Kramiča, a dermatologist, who will focus on preventing skin diseases in active athletes.
Mental Toughness and the Science of Performance
Recognizing the importance of mental fortitude, the conference will also delve into psychological preparation. Guntis Jansons, a psychological readiness coach, will explain why victory is a consequence of correct thinking. Asnate Marianna Fomina, a neuroscientist, will reveal how brain training can provide a real competitive advantage. This focus reflects a growing understanding within the sports community that holistic athlete development must include mental wellbeing.
Inspiring Stories from Champions and Beyond
The conference will also feature inspiring stories from individuals who have excelled in their respective fields. Professional boxer Jevgēnijs Aleksejevs, a European IBF and IBO champion, will share his experiences. Artūrs Visockis-Rubenis, a basketball coach, will also contribute his insights. Perhaps unexpectedly, rapper ZEĻĢIS will analyze how the discipline gained through sports can help achieve success in other areas, demonstrating the transferable skills fostered by athletic pursuits.
Values-Based Sport and the Fight Against Doping
The “Patiess Sports” initiative is rooted in the belief that long-term achievements are only possible when built on a foundation of fairness, and respect. Ivans Šapošņikovs will provide vital information on anti-doping efforts and offer insights into the “Patiess Sports Masterclasses” project. Raitis Keselis (LOK) and Filips Rajevskis will analyze the role of sport in society, highlighting its broader impact beyond competition.
Conference Details and Registration
The conference will be held online on Saturday, April 11th, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM (EEST). Participation is free, but registration is required. Registered online participants will be eligible to receive a certificate of professional development for sports specialists, representing 4 hours of continuing education credit, valid for recertification purposes.
Key Details:
- Date: April 11th, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (EEST)
- Location: Online (link will be sent to registered participants)
- Cost: Free
- Registration: here
About “Patiess Sports”
“Patiess Sports” is an initiative of the Latvian Anti-Doping Agency aimed at educating the sports community about anti-doping issues and promoting the preservation of fundamental sporting values. The initiative symbolizes the true essence of sport – excellence achieved with respect, unity, and passion. It encompasses informative campaigns and educational events, including the annual “Patiess Sports” conferences, which bring together athletes, coaches, and policymakers to create a clean and inspiring sporting environment.
Further information can be found on the Latvian Anti-Doping Agency’s website: http://www.antidopings.gov.lv/sports_ka_vertiba or by emailing antidopings@antidopings.gov.lv.
The Latvian Anti-Doping Agency’s commitment to fostering a culture of integrity in sport is evident in this ongoing conference series. By bringing together experts and stakeholders, “Patiess Sports” aims to equip the Latvian sporting community with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the challenges of modern athletics and uphold the highest ethical standards.
What’s Next: The Latvian Anti-Doping Agency will continue its educational initiatives throughout the year, with further details to be announced on their website. Keep an eye on http://www.antidopings.gov.lv/sports_ka_vertiba for updates.
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