Successful ‘Jump Ball of Love’ Event in Kifisia

On Sunday, February 15, the ‘Jump Ball of Love’ event took place at the Stelios Kalaitzis Municipal Gymnasium in Kifisia, marking a significant celebration of sportsmanship and inclusion. Organized by the Department of Sports and Youth of the Kifisia Municipality in collaboration with the Association for Sustainable Urban Development (S.V.A.P) and the non-profit organization Jump Ball of Love, the event aimed to promote inclusion and education for sustainable development through co-education.

The event featured athletes with autism, Down syndrome, and mobility challenges competing alongside young basketball players from Panerythraikos, sending a powerful message that sports should be free from exclusion and discrimination. Supported by coaches and volunteers, all participants received enthusiastic applause from the audience for their passes, dribbles, and baskets. The smiles, high-fives, and resilience of the young athletes moved parents and friends who watched from the stands.

In her opening remarks, the Municipal Councilor for Sports and Youth, Lila Dragona, emphasized the ongoing support of the municipal authority for initiatives that foster collaboration, inclusion, and a meaningful social impact in sports. At the conclusion of the event, each athlete was awarded a medal and a commemorative gift, creating an atmosphere of pride and emotion. The event was attended by notable figures, including S.V.A.P President Alexis Mavraganis, program founder Giannis Tsoubris, and coaches Dimitris Chouchoulis and Dionysis Katsiotis, along with numerous local residents.