The free sports and education summer project from The Hellenic Initiative in collaboration with Eurohoops, THI Summer Youth Academy completed the activities cycle with a festive event at the Leonteios School of Athens. Practices and theoretical workshops of basketball, games and skill competitions, educational workshops, creative workshops, and motivational speeches over one month created a memorable summer, sports and educational experience for more than 100 boys and girls. Looking to kids acquiring athletic and intellectual skills and develop self-esteem, teamwork, empathy, and cooperation to achieve common goals behind basketball.
The celebratory event for the finale of THI Summer Youth Academy was held in the indoor gym of the Leonteios School of Athens, featuring a 3X3 basketball tournament and skills competitions. Participants competed in games showcasing team spirit and individual skills and offering emotional moments. Eurohoops journalist, Myrto Tsitsiou welcomed kids, parents, coaches, and partners, summarizing activities and most special moments. Greek Michael Printzos, Country Head of THI, talked about the importance of empowering youngsters through sports and education and thanked partners and sponsors. “The reason we designed this whole project was not all about girls and boys being good in basketball, but also to build women and men very strong in life as well,” said Mr. Printzos. Also, the Managing Partner of Eurohoops, Konstantinos Papaloukas expressed his pride in the success of the project and the dedication of the participants. “First of all, I see happy kids. Boys and girls together, happily. Applauding each other and applauding their ‘opponents’. That is the most important,” he noted.
The closing ceremony concluded with prizes awarded to the winning team of the 3X3 tournament and the winners of the skills competitions, as well as commemorative medals to all participants. All the children also received a basketball with the colors of THI Summer Youth Academy and a gift bag of the Washington Wizards of the NBA and the Washington Mystics of the WNBA from the Presenting Sponsor of THI Summer Youth Academy and Ted Leonsis, owner of both teams, to always remind them of the unforgettable experiences and inspire them to keep chasing their dreams.
THI Summer Youth Academy focusing on basketball and surrounding educational options put forward a complete experience combining the joy of the game with the value of learning, laying strong memories and new friendships. These moments will stay with the children, motivating them to continue their development in sports and life.
