The future of amateur sports in Izmir: Mayor Tugay announced important facilities and support steps!

Izmir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Dr. Cemil Tugay met with the heads of amateur sports clubs at the historic Gas Factory Cultural Center. Tugay emphasized that sports are not just a physical activity but also contribute to the healthy, disciplined, and self-confident development of young people, emphasizing the importance of discovering talented children.
"WE MUST DISCOVER CHILDREN WITH TALENT"In his speech at the meeting, President Tugay said, "Those children you and we helped, those whose dreams we shared, may one day bring an Olympic medal and the World Cup to our country." He emphasized that amateur clubs offer a great opportunity for young athletes. Tugay emphasized that children who stand out with their talent and hard work deserve more support, saying, "Tell us, so we can give them extra support. Hopefully, we'll have some great success stories to tell each other in the future."
IZMIR'S SPORTS INFRASTRUCTUREMayor Tugay stated that the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality is accelerating its infrastructure efforts to expand sports to a wider audience. He noted that as of 2024, support had been provided to 300 amateur clubs, 14 women's football clubs, and 19 clubs training disabled athletes, and that this support would continue this year. "Increasing women's opportunities to participate in sports and ensuring the participation of individuals with disabilities in sports is our priority," said Mayor Tugay, adding that support would increase further in 2025.
“WE WANT TO SUPPORT”Addressing club representatives at the meeting, Tugay emphasized their goal of reaching a much broader audience with Izmir's 1,600 amateur sports clubs. Tugay expressed his sincere desire to support each of the clubs, stating that this support would not only be financial but would also provide infrastructure and facilities to ensure the clubs' continued operations.
FACILITIES CONTINUEPresident Tugay also provided information about the completion of the new sports facility in Karabağlar Uzundere. "This facility will be completely finished in November," he said. "We will ensure its use by collaborating with our amateur clubs." Tugay noted that construction continues not only for football but also for volleyball, basketball, and other Olympic sports, emphasizing their commitment to strengthening Izmir's sports infrastructure.
President Tugay also highlighted the successes achieved by athletes from Izmir in recent years. He stated that athletes like Taha Akgül, Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu, and Ferhat Arıcan are a source of pride for Izmir with their achievements at the Olympics and world championships. "These children are the children of Izmir," said Tugay, emphasizing the need for greater support for successful athletes.
"LET'S ALL BELIEVE TOGETHER"After being presented with a national team jersey and scarf, President Tugay said, "You have to believe. Let's all believe together. Hopefully, we will have wonderful success stories to tell each other in the future," adding that they expect great faith and support from club presidents and the sports community.
Source: BULLETIN
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