Copenhagen, 10 October 2025 – EMCA representatives Martijn Loore de Jong and Bojan Mijatovic participated in the Experts Meeting on Dual Career in Football, held as part of the EDU-DC project meetings on 9 October.
During the sessions, it was officially announced that the next Autumn EMCA Connect Conference will take place in Lisbon on 25 September 2026, under the theme “Dual Career and (Multi)Sport.”
At the venue, Kenneth Cortsen, PhD – member of the EMCA Advisory Board and Editor-in-Chief of EMCA Studia – joined the EMCA team to discuss ongoing developments and future directions.
It was also decided that, due to its expansion in both concept and e-learning platforms, EMCA Studia will establish a full Editorial Board to further strengthen its academic and operational framework.
On Sunday, 5 October, EMCA Vice President Gabriella Bascelli visited Società Sportiva Partenope in Naples to meet with representatives of our member club. The meeting proved very positive and constructive.
The Partenope team warmly welcomed the EMCA delegation and proudly presented their facilities, located just beneath the Royal Castle of Naples, a truly emblematic site reflecting the city’s strong sporting and cultural identity.
Discussions focused on the future prospects of the club within EMCA, including potential collaboration in rugby-related projects and other social inclusion activities.
A particularly symbolic moment took place when Andrea Paolini, President of Società Sportiva Lazio Teqball, presented the EU Teq Games shirt to Mr. Guglielmo Gerlomini and spoke about the project, which concluded earlier this year.
Società Sportiva Partenope also kindly offered to host the EMCA General Assembly in early 2027 in the America’s Cup area of Naples.
The visit concluded in a spirit of great enthusiasm and partnership, reaffirming EMCA’s commitment to fostering collaboration among its member clubs.
During its recent General Assembly in Istanbul, the European Multisport Club Association (EMCA) announced that its next Assembly will be hosted at the Saint Cugat Creix facilities in Spain.
The choice of Saint Cugat Creix underlines EMCA’s strategy to strengthen international ties and offers members the opportunity to experience one of the most renowned sports hubs in Catalonia.
The facilities that will host the Assembly are linked to the High Performance Centre (Centre d’Alt Rendiment – CAR Sant Cugat), an internationally recognized sports complex, which includes:
an Olympic-size swimming pool (50m, 10 lanes)
diving and synchronized swimming pools
a 400m athletics track with throwing and jumping areas
a natural grass football pitch
4 indoor and 3 outdoor tennis courts
a multi-purpose arena for basketball, volleyball, handball, futsal, and roller hockey
specialized halls for martial arts, fencing, rhythmic gymnastics, trampoline, and weightlifting
advanced support services for athletes, including physiotherapy, nutrition, sports science, and psychological assistance
educational structures combining academic studies and athletic training for young athletes.
At the same time, Sant Cugat Creix functions as an innovative umbrella organization that brings together several sports clubs from the region, fostering collaboration and the development of multisport activities.
With such state-of-the-art facilities, the next EMCA General Assembly is expected to become a milestone for sharing experiences, strengthening cooperation, and advancing the strategic development of multisport clubs across Europe.
The European Multisport Club Association (EMCA) successfully held its General Assembly in Istanbul, alongside the International Conference titled “AI & (Multi)Sport.”
The event brought together representatives of multisport clubs from across Europe, as well as experts in sports and artificial intelligence. Discussions focused on the opportunities and challenges posed by new technologies, and on how innovation can strengthen the role of multisport clubs as hubs of community, health, and education.
As part of the program, all participants were warmly welcomed and guided through the impressive Taç Spor facilities by President Polat Bengiserp, recently elected to the EMCA Board of Directors — the first Turkish representative ever to hold this position.
The Taç Spor complex, located on the Asian side of Istanbul, impressed guests with its modern infrastructure and wide range of services. Its facilities include:
a Central Tennis Court with seating capacity for around 1,500 spectators
5 outdoor and 7 indoor tennis courts
a fully equipped fitness center
a swimming pool and physiotherapy areas
multipurpose halls
restaurants and social spaces around the pool.
The delegation highlighted not only the quality and variety of the sports infrastructure but also the warm hospitality offered by Taç Spor. Participants expressed their appreciation for the club’s efforts in creating an environment that combines professional-level sports facilities with a welcoming, community-oriented spirit.
This experience reinforced the importance of international cooperation between multisport clubs, as well as EMCA’s commitment to promoting innovation, knowledge sharing, and the values of sport across Europe. Hosting such a significant gathering in Istanbul, at Taç Spor, was a strong message of unity and collaboration that will inspire the association’s future projects.
The European Multisport Club Association (EMCA) successfully hosted the international conference AI & (Multi)Sport on Saturday, 27 September 2025, in Istanbul, as part of its Extraordinary Assembly activities in collaboration with Taç Spor.
In his welcome address, Polat Bengiserp, President of Taç Spor, underlined the symbolic importance of hosting the event at the historic facilities of Galatasaray High School, emphasizing how strongly these facilities are connected to the identity and tradition of the club.
In her keynote speech, Christina Tsiligkiri, President of EMCA, highlighted that Artificial Intelligence is no longer a future trend, but part of our reality, stressing that technology is not neutral — its impact depends on how and why it is used. She underlined that for EMCA, AI must not become a luxury for the few, but a tool for all — one that strengthens transparency, equality, inclusion and the social value of sport. She also reminded participants that while AI can support injury prevention, accessibility, and club management, it is crucial to protect personal data, avoid new inequalities, and ensure that technology always serves people, not the other way around.
The conference gathered representatives from multisport clubs, European institutions, and leading experts in technology and sport, to discuss how AI is set to transform the sporting world. Participants explored opportunities for AI to enhance performance analysis, prevent injuries, improve management efficiency, foster inclusion, and create new ways for communities and fans to engage with sport.
A key highlight of the day was the expert panel discussion featuring Ian Smith, Philipp Ostsieker, Stefano Orengo, Peter Kekesi and Malte Kalsbach, who shared their diverse insights on how AI can responsibly and effectively shape the future of sport.
One of the most inspiring aspects of the day was the presence of students from Galatasaray High School, who attended the sessions with enthusiasm. Their participation brought fresh perspectives and reflected the importance of involving younger generations in shaping the future of sport in the digital era.
The conference concluded with a strong call to action: EMCA and its member clubs must continue to embrace digital innovation, share best practices and cooperate across Europe to ensure that technology — and AI in particular — serves as a tool to strengthen inclusion, participation and the social value of sport.
With this conference, EMCA reaffirmed its role as a bridge between sport, technology and society, opening new horizons for collaboration and inspiring both today’s leaders and tomorrow’s athletes.
The European Multisport Club Association (EMCA) announces the successful conclusion of its General Assembly, held on Friday, 26 September 2025, in Istanbul and hosted by Tac Spor. Under the leadership of EMCA President Christina Tsiligkiri, the gathering marked an important milestone for the Association, reaffirming its mission to promote and support multisport across Europe.
EMCA extends its warm thanks to Tac Spor President Polat Bengiserp and the club’s Secretary, Elif Uzuner, for their hospitality and exemplary organization. As a token of appreciation, EMCA members presented commemorative gifts to Tac Spor’s representatives for their valuable contribution to the event’s success.
The Assembly’s work included a review of 2024–2025 activities, programmes and partnerships, as well as the setting of strategic priorities for 2025–2026, with emphasis on innovation, enhanced member services, and the further development of European collaborations.
EMCA President Christina Tsiligkiri stated: “EMCA is not merely an institution; it is a living network of cooperation, interaction and shared purpose that brings together multisport clubs across Europe. I am particularly pleased to announce that EMCA has been approved to participate in three Erasmus+ programmes, a development that strengthens the organisation’s sustainability and the value we deliver to our members.”
Tac Spor President Polat Bengiserp stated: “For Tac Spor, it was a great honour to host EMCA’s General Assembly in Istanbul. Our city—bridging cultures—reflects the spirit of cooperation that unites us; we warmly thank all members for their trust and look forward to continuing joint initiatives that benefit our clubs and communities.”
Looking ahead, EMCA will build on the momentum of the Assembly, strengthening multisport through collaboration, innovation and steadfast support for its members and partners, with the goal of a more connected and resilient future for sport in Europe. The next General Assembly is scheduled for March 2026 in Spain, at the facilities of Saint Cugat Creix.
Before the start of the proceedings, a minute of silence was observed in memory of the late Hakan Malek, a member of Tac Spor’s Board of Directors. EMCA extends its sincere condolences to his family and to the club.
Prior to the Assembly, participants were given a guided tour of Tac Spor’s facilities, and in the evening an official dinner was hosted for all attendees on Galatasaray’s artificial island on the Bosphorus.
The European Week of Sport(EWoS) officially celebrated its 10th anniversary with a high-profile launch event on 23 September 2025 in Copenhagen, Denmark. The opening ceremony took place at GAME Streetmekka, a former storage facility transformed into a modern hub for sport and social inclusion. The event was inaugurated by His Majesty King Frederik X of Denmark, Mr. Glenn Micallef, Director at DG EAC, and Mr. Jakob Engel-Schmidt, Danish Minister of Sport.
The celebration not only highlighted a decade of EWoS but also showcased the success of the Erasmus+ Sport programme — widely recognised as one of the European Union’s most impactful initiatives in the field of sport and beyond.
Representing the European Multisport Club Association (EMCA), President Christina Tsligkiri, Vice-President Gabriella Bascelli, and Board Member Bojan Mijatović actively participated in the event, reaffirming EMCA’s commitment to promoting multisport values and fostering collaboration across Europe.
On the second day, a Conference addressed key themes such as Physical Literacy, the challenges of sedentary behaviour, and inspiring best practices from successful sport projects across Europe. Discussions underlined the unifying power of sport, even in times of conflict.
Moving examples included initiatives supporting Ukrainian children and schools, proving how sport can help rebuild a sense of belonging to a democratic and inclusive European community despite the ongoing horrors of war.
EMCA, President Christina Tsligkiri stated:
“As President of the European Multisport Club Association (EMCA), I strongly believe that sport has the power to unite. For us, the European Week of Sport is a key initiative that promotes health, inclusion, equality, and active citizenship across every corner of Europe. Sports clubs, organisations, volunteers, and young people are at the heart of this effort — and EMCA is here to support, coordinate, and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact.
From Copenhagen, we send a pan-European message of both physical activity and awareness. Sport is not only about stars; it also holds the path that leads to them.”
Brussels, 11 September 2025 – The European Multisport Clubs Association (EMCA) was represented at the annual SHARE 2.0 Conference by three members of its governing bodies: Yves le Lostecque and Malte Kalsbach from Member of Advissory Body and Bojan Mijatovic, Developer and Sustainability Director of EMCA.
Held under the umbrella of the European Commission at the Albert Borschette Centre in Brussels, the SHARE 2.0 Conference brought together key stakeholders from across the sport sector to address current needs and future trends in the ever-evolving landscape of European sport.
The initiative is structured around Communities of Practice (CoP), focusing on four main areas:
EU Funding
HealthGreen & Sustainable
Sport Innovation As part of the programme,
a dedicated masterclass on Artificial Intelligence for grassroots sport organisations explored how the European Commission is engaging with this fast-developing field, influencing all parts of the sport ecosystem.
A highlight of the event was the launch of the Green Sport Manifesto, a publication designed to embed environmental sustainability into the European sport sector.
Bojan Mijatovic, EMCA Board Member, reflected on the importance of the event:
“11 September 2025 saw the 2nd annual SHARE 2.0 conference, bringing together the officials of the DG EAC, EACEA and representatives of various parts of the European sport world. New trends, accomplishments and ideas were shared to elevate the crucial and significant messages to protect and advance the European sport. The aim is to foster new supportive measures, tools and means to enhance the competitiveness of the European sport, both on the fields and organisationally.
”Yves le Lostecque, also representing EMCA, underlined the timeliness of this year’s edition:
“This 2025 SHARE conference took place at a decisive moment: arrival of a new Commissioner for Sport, reflections on the future of SHARE and of EU Sport policy in general, conception of the new Erasmus+ programme for 2027–2034, etc. This is why, beyond building new contacts and partnerships, a strong EMCA presence was of particular relevance this year.
Through its participation, EMCA reaffirmed its mission to strengthen the role of multisport clubs within European initiatives and to actively contribute to building a healthier, greener and more innovative future for sport in Europe.
The European Multisport Club Association (EMCA) announces that the international conference AI & (Multi)Sport will take place in Istanbul, Türkiye, on Friday, 26 September 2025, hosted by the renowned sports club Taç Spor. In parallel, EMCA’s Extraordinary Assembly will also be held.
The conference will bring together experts, academics, and representatives of multisport clubs from across Europe. It will be an important occasion to explore how artificial intelligence can transform the world of sport, present innovative initiatives, and strengthen the unity of the European multisport movement.
EMCA’s growth and vision
Since its establishment, EMCA has grown steadily, expanding its network of member clubs and giving them a stronger collective voice at the European level. Headquartered in Brussels, the Association actively participates in European projects, collaborates with institutions and partners, and promotes innovation, sustainability, and inclusion in sport.
At the March 2025 Assembly in Piraeus, Greece, a new Executive Board was elected, new committees were formed, and important decisions were taken to reinforce EMCA’s governance, sustainability, and organizational structure. These steps reflect EMCA’s determination to serve as a driving force for multisport clubs across Europe.
Why Istanbul matters
Choosing Istanbul and Taç Spor as the host highlights EMCA’s commitment to fostering cooperation among clubs of diverse cultures and backgrounds. The AI & (Multi)Sport conference will serve as a milestone in EMCA’s journey, providing a platform for members and experts to exchange experiences, share best practices, and collectively shape future initiatives.
In parallel with the conference and Assembly, additional activities will be organized under the EMCA Connect framework, aiming to strengthen member engagement, showcase innovative ideas, and create new opportunities for collaboration.
Statement by the President Ms. Christina Tsiligkiri:
“By focusing on AI and its impact on sport, EMCA is taking a bold step into the future,” said EMCA President Christina Tsiligkiri. “This conference will not only open new horizons for our clubs, but also confirm our commitment to innovation, cooperation, and the sustainable growth of the European multisport movement. Istanbul will be the place where ideas meet practice, and where we collectively explore how technology can enhance values such as inclusion, fair play, and solidarity in sport. We strongly believe that the dialogue we begin here will inspire new initiatives and long-lasting partnerships for the benefit of the entire European sporting community.”
Brussels, 18 June 2025 – The European Multisport Club Association (EMCA) proudly participated in the official launch of the Sport Transparency Index, a pioneering initiative led by the Sport Integrity Global Alliance (SIGA) and co-funded by the European Union’s Erasmus+ Sport programme.
Held at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel, the event gathered stakeholders from across Europe’s sport ecosystem to discuss the need for measurable transparency and stronger governance in sport organizations. EMCA was notably represented on the panel “The Benefits of Publicly Evaluating Transparency and Good Governance in Sport”, featuring:
Christina Tsiligkiri, President of EMCA and General Manager of Olympiacos SFP
Bojan Mijatovic, International Coordinator of HAŠK Mladost (Zagreb, Croatia) and Director of Development and Sustainability of EMCA
Their contributions emphasized the role of multisport clubs in shaping a culture of transparency and accountability.
The Sport Transparency Index uses 15 indicators across organizational, operational, and financial dimensions to evaluate governance practices in sport organizations. After a rigorous pilot phase covering 700+ organizations, the Index is now being implemented at a broader national and international scale.
Statement from EMCA President, Christina Tsiligkiri:
“Sport must lead by example – not only on the field but also in governance. The Sport Transparency Index is an essential step toward openness, responsibility, and better decision-making in sport. At EMCA, we are committed to building a future where transparency is the norm, not the exception, and we are proud to support this important European initiative.”
