EMCA at the BeInclusive EU Sport Awards 2025 – Building Innovation and Inclusion in European Sport

The European Multisport Club Association (EMCA) proudly took part in the #BeInclusive EU Sport Awards 2025, held in Brussels, celebrating projects that promote inclusion through sport across Europe.

The EMCA was represented by its President, who also had important meetings with European officials during the event.

Promoting Innovation in Sport with the European Commission

On the sidelines of the ceremony, the EMCA President met with EU Commissioner Glenn Micallef (responsible for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport), alongside the Deputy Minister of Sports of Greece, Mr. Giannis Vroutsis.

They discussed new and innovative ideas for European sport policy — especially the digital platform e-kouros, which focuses on modernization and accessibility in sports.

During the meeting, the EMCA President officially invited Commissioner Micallef to attend the upcoming EMCA International Conference on September 26, 2025 in Istanbul, themed:

“Artificial Intelligence in Sports – AI in Sports”.

The Commissioner expressed strong interest in attending, and both sides agreed to work closely together in the coming months on shared goals.

2025 Award Winners: Sport Making a Difference

This year’s #BeInclusive EU Sport Awards highlighted inspiring initiatives from across Europe:

• Breaking Barriers: Bushido Club (Poland) – “Karate in Europe”, promoting inclusion in rural communities through coach education and youth outreach.
• Be Equal: Fútbol Más France – “District Spot”, empowering girls aged 10–17 through football and gender equality.
• Sport for Peace: Lietuvos Etnosporto Komitetas (Lithuania) – “Fate of a Sport”, supporting youth unity after the war in Ukraine.

EMCA’s Commitment to a More Inclusive and Smart Future in Sport

The EMCA remains fully committed to promoting inclusion, innovation, and technology in sport. By strengthening cooperation with European institutions, the EMCA is helping to shape a more inclusive and forward-thinking sport ecosystem.

Statement by EMCA President Christina Tsiligkiri:

“The #BeInclusive EU Sport Awards are a powerful reminder that sport can drive unity, innovation, and social change across Europe. It was an honour to represent EMCA in Brussels and to engage in a constructive dialogue with Commissioner Glenn Micallef and Deputy Minister of Sports of Greece, Mr. Giannis Vroutsis. Their commitment to inclusive and forward-thinking sport policies is inspiring. As we prepare for our upcoming conference on Artificial Intelligence in Sports, EMCA remains dedicated to promoting smart, accessible, and inclusive solutions for the future of European sport.” Stay tuned for updates on the EMCA Conference in Istanbul and our future actions on Artificial Intelligence in Sports.