UEFA and Special Olympics stage Brussels tournament
Friday, September 12, 2008
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UEFA and its partner Special Olympics will host their annual football tournament at the European Parliament in Brussels next Wednesday.
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Mixed teams
Teams mixing together Special Olympics athletes, Members of the European Parliament, European Commission officials, and young players from RSC Anderlecht will play on a small pitch that lies directly behind the Parliament's main chamber. The tournament showcases UEFA's commitment to Special Olympics, and gives EU policy-makers the opportunity to see for themselves how football promotes social inclusion and improves our understanding of the gifts and skills of people with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics, founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, is the world's largest year-round programme of sports training and competitions for individuals with intellectual disabilities. UEFA has been giving significant backing to Special Olympics Europe Eurasia for several years.
Figel at kick-off
This year's tournament is supported by the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue 2008 (Click here: www.interculturaldialogue2008.eu), and the European Commissioner for sport, Ján Figeľ, will preside over the kick-off at 14:30. The European Year of Intercultural Dialogue recognises that Europe's great cultural diversity represents a unique advantage. It encourages all people living in Europe to explore the benefits of our rich cultural heritage and take opportunities to learn from different cultural traditions.
Increasingly popular
"This is the fourth consecutive year that UEFA and Special Olympics have hosted this tournament, and it becomes more popular each year," said William Gaillard, UEFA director of communications. "This time we are particularly delighted that Ján Figeľ is taking part. The Commissioner will be able to see first-hand how Special Olympics operates." Mary Davis, Managing Director of Special Olympics Europe/Eurasia, added: "Special Olympics Europe/Eurasia is delighted to join with UEFA, the EU and RSC Anderlecht in showcasing the abilities and skills of Special Olympics athletes and promoting social inclusion particularly as we celebrate the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue 2008."