26th March 2012 11:31
Stressing the need for action, European Athletics President Hansjörg Wirz has told the Development Committee that its activities are important for promoting athletics and building the visibility and credibility the sport requires in order to attract more support from governments, institutions and sponsors.
The president was present Friday at the beginning of the committee's weekend meeting in Amsterdam where the European Athletics Education Programme topped the agenda, the main point being the upcoming CEO Conference (Neusiedl am See, Austria, 21-22 April) – which will emphasise opportunities to expand the revenue streams of Member Federations.
In line with President Wirz's opening speech, progress reports were given on a number of recently initiated projects in the areas of mass participation, health and fitness, sustainability and women's leadership. These projects will feature also on the programme of the CEO Conference next month.
In addition, the committee discussed ongoing work to follow up the recommendations of the 2010 European Athletics Clubs Conference in Frankfurt regarding improvements to the international clubs championships and strengthening national club systems.
Vice President Jean Gracia, who chairs the committee, said, 'the President reminded us that it is important for European Athletics to deliver services to Member Federations and provide leadership to the sport in the area of development. After this very productive meeting I am happy to report that we have a comprehensive action plan and are committed to showing visible progress and qualitative achievements.'