Words of advice from a previous Media Trust Media Industry World Cup champion

With everyone’s eyes on the trophy and an incredible prize of backstage access to the filming of Monday Night Football at Sky Sports Studios to be won, it’s going to be a thrilling day of five-a-side football in the sunshine.

We spoke with Ricardo Araujo – Head of Finance, Planning & Analysis at Kew Media Group (and 2017’s winner) on what it was like to win, advice and why you should put together a team and take part this year.

What made you want to get involved in the Media Trust Media Industry World Cup?

I have participated in three tournaments over the past few years and I can honestly say it is one of the highlights of my year. Every year, the event just gets better and better with Media Trust running wonderful, well-organised tournaments.

It has been great to meet and compete against fellow “Medianites” (i.e. people from other Media Companies – yes, I just made that up but I think it works!) and it is a fantastic platform for networking. The football is of a high quality and whilst the competition is fierce with every team aiming to ‘bring the trophy home’, there is an overarching level of sportsmanship and respect which is fantastic.

For any lover of the ‘beautiful game’, it is a fun day out but the most important factor is the fundraising for Media Trust.

Tell us about your football experience?

I’ve played football since the age of six and I’ve played in all forms of the game –5-a-side, 7-a-side, 11-a-side, Futsal and even Beach Soccer as a youngster in South Africa. I currently play once a week – either 5-a-side midweek or seven-a-side on a Sunday.

How have you found competing in the last three tournaments?

I’ve loved playing in the three Media Trust tournaments which I’ve had the pleasure to be a part of and I get excited before each. Before, I always try to get my fitness level up to a ‘decent’ standard, because the matches are competitive (in a good way) and sap energy. The best my team has done is win the tournament in 2017 – a fantastic experience! My end of day thoughts are always that I’ve enjoyed the day and am already look forward to next year’s tournament.

What’s one highlight of yours from a Media Trust Media Industry World Cup?

Winning it in 2017!

Any tips on how to prepare for a Media Trust Media Industry World Cup competition?

Try to be as fit as possible because five-a-side matches are fast-paced and the stretching pre and post matches is vital – especially for the older players such as myself.

Since the competition is inspired by the biggest sporting event in the world, what is your favourite FIFA World Cup memory?

I have many wonderful FIFA World Cup memories, but I would say, South Africa’s opening goal v Mexico in the 2010 World Cup and Ronaldo’s hat trick v Spain in the 2018 tournament. As a Portuguese/South African, these are two great memories.

Any last words of encouragement for those entering for the first time?

Enjoy the day and exploit the opportunity for networking with other media industry colleagues. The matches are competitive, fun and sometimes exhilarating, as every team wants to be crowned the winner but ultimately remember that the event is for a good cause.

I look forward to this year’s tournament and seeing you on the pitch!