Grassroots Day in San Marino
Thursday, September 5, 2013
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San Marino's Stadio Olimpico in Serravalle was the venue as people of all ages enjoyed a range of events, including small-sided games, on UEFA Grassroots Day 2013.
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UEFA Grassroots Day in San Marino on 22 May was marked by a series of activities at the Stadio Olimpico in Serravalle.
Under the guidance of national grassroots officer Alessandro Giaquinto, club youth coordinators Alessandro Bizzocchi, Giovanni Podavini, Mimmo Protti, Andrea Vannucci, Silvano Valentini and Eraldo Raggini contributed to the success of a sun-soaked day devoted to promoting football for all.
For the first time, Special Olympics officials and players figured in the annual event, taking to the field for two memorable matches – against a side of San Marino match officials and against the women's youth team.
Another first saw parents attend the grassroots festivities, and they did so in large numbers. Mothers and fathers participated in five-a-side games, initially among themselves and later together with, and even against, their children.
The Stadio Olimpico pitch was divided into smaller playing areas for this innovative event, which featured a series of small-sided games involving representatives from all sections of the grassroots football community (except for veterans). All in all, the atmosphere was one of joy, fun and excitement for everyone, even the most disadvantaged and underprivileged members of society.
This wonderful and unforgettable day was rounded off with a photo of all the participants sporting official UEFA Grassroots Day T-shirts.
