No. 163

DECEMBER 2016 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE UNION OF EUROPEAN FOOTBALL ASSOCIATIONS

WOMEN’S EURO 2017 A record 16 teams are gearing up for next summer’s Women’s EURO in the Netherlands

GRASSROOTS THE FOOTBALL FOOTBALL TECHNICIAN REVOLUTION Celebrating UEFA Grassroots shares his experience The transformation from Week all over Europe with student coaches leather to synthetic www.uefafoundation.org EDITORIAL

TAKING WOMEN’S FOOTBALL TO ANOTHER LEVEL

t may not have been long since I started I am committed to carrying this momentum my mandate as UEFA president, but already throughout my mandate as UEFA president. II have witnessed how passionate this I want to help take the women’s game to organisation is about promoting, protecting another level. My vision is that one day we will and developing football in Europe. speak not about women’s football development It has given me great pleasure to learn more but just women’s football. about all the projects and initiatives that we are This is a vision I think we can achieve by pursuing with our national associations to reach working together with all national associations our common goal of safeguarding the future and investing in making the game stronger. of our sport. And then, by combining the growing strength I recently had the opportunity to attend the of grassroots initiatives and the increasing draw for UEFA Women’s EURO 2017 in profile of our competitions, we will surely Rotterdam and this allowed me to underline be able to celebrate many more great my commitment to the development of accomplishments in the future. women’s football across the continent. This flagship , which had its first edition in 1984, has grown immensely and will feature a record 16 teams next year. It is a sign that progress has been made and that momentum exists in this sector. This momentum has largely been driven by the hard work and dedication of the nations who have invested in the women’s game and have been leading by example. So I would like to thank the superpowers who have celebrated European success and those who are now Aleksander Čeferin taking their first steps at elite level. UEFA President

UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 – 03 CONTENTS

22 UEFA

6 Sportsfile IN THIS ISSUE

6 Women’s EURO 2017 18 Social responsibility The 16 finalists now know who they will face Clubs in the UEFA Champions League, UEFA in the Netherlands. Europa League and UEFA Women’s Champions Official publication of the Union of European League all say ‘No to Racism’. Football Associations 8 Women’s football The Polish Football Association showcases its Chief editor: 22 The Technician Emmanuel Deconche women’s football development programme. During a coach education student exchange in Nyon, Roy Hodgson shared some of his Deputy chief editor: Dominique Maurer 10 From leather to fast wealth of experience with the next generation synthetic spheres of elite coaches. External contributors: Forty years ago, footballs started to change Simon Hart (page 10) Julien Hernandez (page 16) beyond all recognition. Some of those who 28 For the record experienced the transformation at first hand The latest on injury trends and diagnoses Production: Touchline tell UEFA Direct how it changed the game. from UEFA’s elite club injury study. Printing: 16 How the away goals rule 30 Grassroots football Artgraphic Cavin CH-1422 Grandson came into being Associations all over Europe celebrate UEFA UEFA Direct delves into the history behind the Grassroots Week. Editorial deadline: away goals rule, which has been a fundamental 17 November 2016 part of UEFA competitions since the 1960s. 38 News from member Cover photo: associations Getty Images; Stef22 / Dreamstime.com

04 – UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 THE TECHNICIANCONTENTS

10 PA 30 FFU

18 Getty Images

UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 – 05 THEWOMEN’S TECHNICIAN EURO

EXPANDED FINALS OPEN DOORS TO NEW NATIONS There were five debutants among the 16 teams in the draw for UEFA Women’s EURO 2017 in Rotterdam on 8 November.

s only 13 different countries high of 39 goals. Their qualification was had ever qualified for previous confirmed in June, when the only team A European Women’s Championship that could catch them, Finland, were held final , the expansion from 0-0 by Portugal. 12 teams to 16 for the 2017 edition That proved a crucial result as Finland, was guaranteed to bring new names chasing a fourth straight qualification, into the mix. then travelled to Portugal in September And so it did. While Germany will be and, despite leading 2-0, lost 3-2 to a going for a seventh straight title in the Cláudia Neto hat-trick. ‘CN7’ then scored Netherlands next summer, and both on the rebound from a saved penalty in Norway and Italy will be competing in their the Republic of Ireland four days later, with 11th final tournament, Austria, Belgium, 12 minutes left, to take Portugal – seeded Portugal, Scotland and Switzerland will all fourth in the group – above Finland on be making their debuts at this stage of the head-to-head record and into the competition. play-offs.

Preliminary round Group 3 A record starting line-up of 47 nations, Getty Images Romania booked their place against including the hosts, meant a preliminary Portugal as a 2-1 success over Ukraine gave round was needed to reduce the list of them second place and a first-ever play-off hopefuls to 40 for the main qualifying – it would have been a place in the finals group stage. Moldova – on home soil had Russia not pipped them to the sixth – and Georgia came through the runners-up berth by a single goal. preliminary mini-tournaments in April Pole position was never in doubt as 2015, with first-timers Andorra among the France claimed eight straight victories teams failing to progress to the eight main without conceding and became the first groups, which played home and away in team to qualify on 11 April. They have now the 12 months from September 2015. won a record 41 group qualifiers in a row The eight group winners and the six and the 24,835 crowd that watched them runners-up with the best record against beat Greece in Rennes in June was a the teams that finished first, third and Women’s EURO qualifying record. fourth in their section would qualify automatically, with the other two Group 4 second-placed sides to play off for the Sweden comfortably qualified, edging 16th berth in the Netherlands. Slovakia 2-1 in September for a seventh Getty Images successive win, the Scandinavian side fresh Group 1 from taking Olympic silver the previous From the opening fixtures, when Scotland They did not have to worry. By the time month. Denmark, who had endured an won 3-0 in Slovenia and Iceland beat they visited Iceland for their final qualifier unhappy World Cup qualifying campaign, Belarus 2-0, the group always looked like a on 20 September, both Scotland and their dropped points early on by losing in two-horse race. Indeed, by the time they hosts were guaranteed at least to be one Sweden and drawing in Poland, but met for the first time in June, neither team of the six best runners-up. Scotland finished with a flourish, clinching second had dropped a point and, between them, celebrated with a 2-1 victory, Jane Ross place by defeating their neighbours 2-0 in they had 44 goals from nine games. striking twice to finish as ten-goal their last qualifier. The 1-0 loss in the Iceland, seeking a third straight qualifying joint-top scorer with Iceland’s reverse fixture featured the only goal the qualification, prefigured their male team’s Harpa Thorsteinsdóttir and Norway’s Danes conceded in the group. EURO 2016 heroics by winning 4-0 in Ada Hegerberg. Scotland, giving Anna Signeul’s side a Group 5 shudder that they might face the same Group 2 Germany qualified with their usual fate as in 2009 and 2013, when they There was no stopping Spain, who won consummate ease, making it official just a faced heartbreaking play-off defeats. all of their eight matches with a qualifying day after France with a 2-0 triumph over

06 – UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 2-1 home. at and away 3-0 Italy overcoming fixtures, eight all won they as qualifying in EURO 16, kept form last that up they the and to got Cup they World where inCanada, to make 2015 the Denmark and Iceland off seen comfortably had Switzerland pile. the to top favourites far from were Azzurre the of qualifications, number joint-record a held a Women’s Italy and EURO reached never had Switzerland While Group 6 runner-up. best sixth as qualification to automatic Romania to beat of Croatia thrashing 5-0 concluding their of full margin the needed but straight, final inthe good came They four games. first their from points five managed only Russia as of arace more was place Second Jones. Steffi to successor Neid Silvia transitioned from long-standing coach smoothly and gold Olympic afirst landed reply, without 35 goals scored matches, eight all won had they end the Croatia. By Sportsfile Getty Images

England’s Danielle Carter, who won Carter, won England’s Danielle who by feat notable a was There finals. the for of qualification assured already was side each fixture, last inthe inBelgium 2-0 won England time by the and all-comers Scott. Jill by on late victory denied only were visitors the 2002; since infact hosts by their conceded goal 1-1, qualifying home first the drew and to England travelled they later months five outing next November, in their 1-1 held in were by Serbia home at Belgium way. the all England Although pushing by debut afinals earned Belgium Group 7 the Netherlands. in 3-1 Czechs the Switzerland to join dismissed and Ireland inNorthern 3-0 won Azzurre the though, matches, two last their In of qualifying. end the until right spot for second Republic Czech the and Ireland Northern by both pressed themselves found Italy, meanwhile, Both teams continued to see off off to see continued teams Both Enschede, Rotterdam, Tilburg and Utrecht. and Tilburg Rotterdam, Enschede, Doetinchem, Deventer, Breda, tournament: the for cities host seven are There 6 August. on final the and on 3 August semi-finals the July, 30 and 29 on quarter-finals 16 27 July,the and between played be will matches group The Portugal Spain, Scotland, D:England, Group Group C: Group B: Group A: groups: four following the into the contenders 16 2017EURO dealt draw final Women’s the Rotterdam, in 8November, On GROUP FORMATIONS DECIDED France, Iceland, Austria, Switzerland Austria, Iceland, France, Germany, Sweden, Italy, Russia Italy, Sweden, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, Belgium Norway, Denmark, Netherlands, EURO double is still possible. still is double EURO men’s women’s and unlikely Portugal An of time. out to run were Romania but to go, minutes nine with night the on a precious away goal. away a precious infor shot and clear minute, sent was 78th inthe debut Portugal for her on come had who Norton, Andreia ends of change the before just but to loom started Penalties ensued. time extra so minutes, 90 after 0-0 was it Again epic. an –watched history competition’s inthe attendance play-off largest inCluj later 7,110days as second –the five bettered was it but women’s record, Părăluţă’s arms. Andrea into goalkeeper rolled then that apenalty with post the hitting Neto 0-0, held were inLisbon dominating despite but home at leg first to the play 26th to Romania’s 22nd, drawn were ranked qualifying began who Portugal, of 1997 Romania. on 2001 and –took play-offs in the –beaten Portugal as guaranteed was finalist debut A fifth Play-offs inWales. stalemate 0-0 a with it certain making finals, maiden to their Austria took that of acampaign highlight the was result That Austria. with ina2-2 only draw home points dropping group, the of winning work short made of Hegerberg, goals by the aided Norway, Group 8 games. in both hat-tricks bagged and Estonia, against home at and away caps two first her Fellow substitute Laura Rus levelled Rus levelled Laura substitute Fellow of 3,415 crowd The aPortuguese was UEFA • DIRECT December December 2016 2016

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07 T 08 08 her to some of the girls benefiting from the work being done. Nadine Kessler to to show her the results on the ground and introduce Development Programme, the Polish Football Association invited UEFA ambassador Recently celebrated as one of the champions of the UEFA Women’s Football FOOTBALL IN POLAND DEVELOPING WOMEN’S of our collaborative efforts and we look look we and efforts collaborative of our impact the to see satisfying very is It clubs. and schools between relationship the strengthening by notably Poland, across girls young among in football participation to and access “increasing explains, Boniek Zbigniew president women’s football,”UEFA to develop PZPN possible. where replicated to be practice of best examples as identified have been PZPN by the forward put those and of areas inavariety women’s game the to develop projects association national in2010, funds Launched programme the cycle. first its completed just has which Programme, “The Polish FA works hand-in-hand with with hand-in-hand FA Polish works “The – UEFA • DIRECT the UEFA Women’s Football Development Development UEFA Women’sthe Football in stories of success of anumber one is (PZPN) Polish he December 2016 13 years old years 13 Martyna Ilove.”what is football and area, the in I know club best the is this because play to here come “I

women’s Under-13 competition, six-a-side of a creation inthe things, other among have resulted, level, to professional grassroots the from pathway development player anational create and players, and leagues women’s of the game. profile the raising and for women education women’sdomestic competitions, coach areas: main inthree money the to invest decided PZPN the Poland, In development. women’s on football to spend ayear €100,000 (2012–16), association member UEFA each gave example.” practice best by a UEFA as recognised to be honoured We country. are the throughout football women’s to to develop continuing forward Efforts to increase the number of women’s number the to increase Efforts programme the of cycle full first the During

UEFA WOMEN’S FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME

in which each of the 16 regional associations Sharing her impressions during her first “It was great to meet enters their two best teams. Since 2015/16 outing as a UEFA ambassador, 28-year-old Nadine. She sets an the event has been included in the domestic Kessler – who won the 2014 UEFA Best example and proves competitions calendar. Women’s Player in Europe Award and that girls can also received the 2014 FIFA Player of the Year play football!” More female coaches Award – said: “It feels really good to be in Encouraging clubs to invest in training female Poland as a UEFA ambassador. In my new role, Ania coaches has also proved successful. A total of I hope to inspire younger girls and give 13 years old 203 women now hold a Polish FA licence something back. I can share my experience and 40 have been awarded UEFA B licences. as a player and hopefully encourage more Eight clubs received best practice awards from girls to play football.” the PZPN’s women’s football committee and Kessler also reflected on the work of the 12 women now work as full-time coaches of PZPN: “I’m really impressed. They have made women’s teams. it easier for girls to get into football. And Last but not least, the PZPN’s efforts to raise meeting the girls, chatting and laughing with the profile of the women’s game have included them and seeing how their eyes sparkle when women’s competition branding, broadcasting they go out onto the pitch and do what they women’s matches online and posting highlights love, it makes me very happy.” of recorded matches on servers hosted by the One of the highlights of the PZPN’s PZPN on behalf of the clubs. implementation of the UEFA Women’s Nadine Kessler, former Germany international Football Development Programme is that and recently appointed UEFA women’s foot­­­- the association’s large-scale promotion of the ball development ambassador, travelled women’s game has attracted new sponsors to Warsaw to see at first hand what the and other stakeholders have started taking association has achieved. more of an interest as a result. On day one of her visit she attended a The PZPN is one of several associations women’s Under-13 tournament just outside that have shown outstanding commitment the capital, shared her insights with and gave and results in the field of women’s football advice to the players and their parents in development. Special reports on the exemplary special Q&A sessions, and then accompanied work undertaken in other countries around the girls to the National Stadium, where they Europe – Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, watched the men’s national team take on England, Estonia, the Faroe Islands, Germany, Armenia in the European Qualifiers. Hungary and Malta – will be published on On day two Kessler attended another UEFA.org throughout 2016/17. tournament, this time for 8 to 10-year-olds. The success of the Women’s Football The girls were not short on enthusiasm, and it Development Programme in its first cycle was heartwarming to see them hugging their has been such that the funding has been idol and asking for her autograph, on cards, extended for another four years as part of Nadine Kessler, UEFA women’s football shirts and even lunchboxes. HatTrick IV (2016–20). development ambassador UEFA UEFA

UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 – 09 10 THE GAME

– Credits: Getty Images / adidas UEFA DIRECT •December 2016 THE GAME

THE REMARKABLE TRANSFORMATION OF THE FOOTBALL

From the leather models of old to today’s synthetic creations, the football has undergone a remarkable transformation since the 70s – a revolution retold by those who experienced it at first hand.

e graced the game’s greatest stages, Today’s footballs belong to a different ‘You had to try to playing in European Cup finals for world. When adidas launched the Beau find out, as a coach, Juventus and for Poland at the Jeu, the official match ball for EURO whichever ball a World Cup. Today he is president 2016 after an 18-month testing period, country was playing of the Polish Football Association. it featured six identical panels, thermally with. If you went HYet there is a corner of Zbigniew Boniek’s mind bonded to provide a seamless surface, reserved for a special childhood memory – the and the promise of a predictable trajectory, to some of the new simple joy of having a ball at his feet. “When better touch and low water uptake. football nations in I was a boy, the ball was like a treasure,” The transformation in ball technology Eastern Europe at he says. “The boy with the ball was the king since adidas produced the first tournament the time you didn’t of the playground.” ball, the Telstar, has been remarkable, and see their games And this being Poland in the 1960s, that ball so too its impact on the game itself. From very often and were was made of leather, which stiffened in the the Telstar and Tango through the first cold, and thickened in the rain. “When it was entirely non-leather designs of the mid-80s desperate to find wet, you really felt it,” Boniek remembers. to the UEFA Champions League Star Ball, out what type of ball “It was not very pleasant when you were footballs have grown ever lighter and faster. they used.’ standing in the wall at a free-kick and the ball Never mind the old pig’s bladder – as the Packie Bonner hit you. It was the same with headers.” great Dutch observes, Chris Waddle remembers the leather ball things have changed dramatically even too. The former England winger can recall since his playing days. clearly the first one his father bought for him “The ball was much harder, it was much at a sports shop in Newcastle one never- heavier also and you had to use more forgotten Saturday morning in the mid-60s. power in my days,” Gullit says. “If you look “I went in and he bought this leather ball at goalkeepers then, they could hardly kick which was lovely,” he says. “I even remember the ball to the middle of the pitch. You can the smell. We got the bus home and within shoot the ball with less effort now and it 15 minutes of getting home I was on the field swirls a lot.” with it. All of a sudden you end up with about That is not to say players could not get 30 mates because you’ve got the best ball in any movement out of older balls, adds the street. I kicked the leather off it for a good Gullit, remembering how “in my days in year and a bit.” Italy, [Oleksiy] Mykhaylychenko could do Waddle’s words evoke a different time – and this when he played for Sampdoria. not just for those big games of street football. He could do the same with the old ball. That old stitched leather ball that he kicked That is a matter of technique. But you around his neighbourhood would resemble can do it now with less effort. To get the a museum piece to a child today. So too the same kind of speed, you don’t need to be playground ball of Boniek’s boyhood. powerful to do it.”

UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 – 11 12 and altitude, that was a perfect moment to moment aperfect was that altitude, and the humidwith conditions and hard grounds Cup World the to went Mexico when but in1984, ball anon-leather was it to people tell “Adidas remembers: hesitant and were period Mexico. in finals the at used –was México Azteca the – World ball Cup synthetic such first the later, years two and ball, non-leather wholly a featuring tournament major first the was conditions. in cold stiffen not does and flexible is Unlike leather, abrasion. polyurethane against resistance and ball’s shape the maintain helped and provided waterproofing which coating of aDurlast polyurethane introduction the 1974 featured Cup World Germany inWest 1970. for the Mexico at later model years The two World ball adidas Cup first the becoming before Championship 1968 European the at used was It 1960s. of the end the at appeared – satellite acommunications after named and hexagons, 20 and white of 12 pentagons black up made 1963 Telstar ball –a32-panel the and in Copenhagen. Sweden and Denmark for amatch between used was lacing without year, same of the afootball in snow. October In played games balls for orange and floodlights under played for matches introduced were balls year, in that brown; generally white were they 1951 Until by lacing. together held of panels up made casing inaleather encased bladder apig’s cow’s was or afootball Originally decades the down A journey SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Günter Pfau was working for adidas in this inthis for adidas working was Pfau Günter inFrance Championship European 1984 The in of footballs production its began Adidas – UEFA DIRECT •December 2016 groups: FIFA-approved, FIFA-inspected, and and FIFA-inspected, FIFA-approved, groups: quality into three divided then were Footballs competitions. ininternational used balls for the controls quality FIFA-endorsed implemented 1996 UEFA that 1January until not was It In search of uniformity zero.”near 0.2%. Or, specific, to be Today is it conditions. inwet cent inweight per 20 gained sometimes ball the for example, 70s, or 60s the In resistance. water better much had ball the means any more,” “That Pfau. says handstitched not were panels “The match ball. official to the mini-balls from sold, were million four Over bonding. by thermal connected were panels and bladder carcass, whose ball a was It Portugal. in finals 2004 EURO Roteiro, the the ball, for seamless first the of introduction the was this in 2004: came advantages.” the people to show ball anon-leather introduce The next truly significant design change change design significant truly next The

Getty Images UEFA Champions League Starball Waddle Chris it.’with things of alot do and it fuzz you could lively, really was it it, Iloved with. played I football liveliest the was Tango ‘The

Getty Images was a completely different ball.” different acompletely was it and somewhere go then and inDublin train We went. would you before towith train some find could you so ball, of type what out to find desperate were and often very games their see didn’t you time the at Europe in Eastern nations football new of the to went some you If with. playing was acountry ball whichever as a coach, out, “You to find to try had nation’s his custodians. coaching days in his reality different avery goalkeeper, remembers of Ireland Republic Bonner, former Packie the to amatch” –yet build-up inthe by supporters felt adrenaline to the alludes which colouring, black and of red Cup “bursts –providing the 2018 for Qualifiers World European the ball for adidas official an may be There ball.” own their had Everyone Derbystars. had some adidas, had Some week. whole the aball with “Yousays: practised 1980s, in the Eredivisie Dutch the recalling Gullit, Ruud fixture. for agiven visiting be would they club by the used ball the with training to up afixture leading days the spend to for teams practice common was it past, times In season. the throughout fixture League UEFA Champions every at used match ball adidas official an been has there 2006/07 since –and stars by eight adorned was name, it its to in true – 2001 time first for the appeared Star Ball League UEFA Champions The suit. following were competitions club other Soon ball.match official an introduced in England the case of top-class footballs. of top-class case the in –seven controls quality six to pass had MatchballInternational Standard. footballs All It was the same in the international arena. arena. international in the same the was It In the same decade, the Premier League League Premier the decade, same the In

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as a flippin’ miracle!” a flippin’ as heralded been have day, would my in it yards 30 from ashot smacked had someone if Tell what, box. you the outside well from goalkeeper bewildered another past one bends Beckham as corner top the zip into rising, still ball, the towatch astonishing is “It added. he indeed,” rare for, very were known is Beckham David kind the as such specials, kick free- and distance from scored were goals few “Very autobiography. 2003 his in era his of balls the about writing 1950s, the of legend football Tom of English the Finney, recollection the was This option.” asensible as shooting long-range considered one –no cent per 50 by increase could weight the day awet on –and heavy so was ball “The THE FOOTBALL THE 50S IN Ruud Gullit to do it.’ do to powerful be to need you don’t speed, of kind same the To get effort. less with now it do can you But technique. of amatter is That ball. old the with same the do could ‘Mykhaylychenko

UEFA DIRECT •

December 2016 –

13 Getty Images THE GAME

Impact on goalkeepers Both Zbigniew Boniek and Gullit suggest that modern footballs are no friend of the goalkeeper. Pascal Olmeta, who played in goal for Olympique de Marseille and in the 90s, concurs. “You often hear, ‘It’s the goalkeeper’s fault’, but connoisseurs know it’s because of the trajectories the balls take which are impossible to read.” He even suggests that goalkeepers should follow the lead of his old goalkeeping coach, Jean Castaneda, who made him train with rugby balls to help him get used to reacting to balls with a less predictable flight. “It helps you to work on your reactions.” Getty Images

Packie Bonner, now a UEFA instructor, offers his own insight into how goalkeeping has changed in the face of developments in ball technology. As a young player, for instance, he remembers being instructed to always hold the ball. “If a goalkeeper did not catch the ball from a 20 or 25-yard shot, they were deemed a bad goalkeeper,” he recalls. Today, goalkeepers THE DIMENSIONS Getty Images receive a different message. “They don’t have that opportunity to hold it,” the Irishman OF A FOOTBALL continues, “so they are trained to knock the ball into an area of safety away from goal. The Laws of the Game state that a football must be: If they try to catch it, it can come out two or three yards. The ball is not as easy to catch and it is lighter and travels with speed.” Bonner remembers the sight of a Manuel Neuer goal kick during the Germany v England kg round of 16 match at the 2010 World Cup, when the ball landed 30 metres from David James’s goal, teeing up Miroslav Klose to score. of a circumference not more than 450g of a pressure equal “That was incredible to think the goalkeeper of not more than (16oz) and not less than to 0.6–1.1 atmosphere can now take the ball from that distance off 70cm (28ins) 410g (14oz) in weight (600–1,100g/cm2 ) at the ground and it travels all that way.” and not less than at the start sea level (8.5lbs/sq in – If the Jabulani aided Neuer in that instance, 68cm (27ins) of the match 15.6lbs/sq in) its movement in the air was such that goalkeepers faced an extra problem when facing strikes from distance. “The biggest issue

14 – UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 THE GAME

WHAT’S IN A FOOTBALL?

The Beau Jeu at EURO 2016 had a bladder of latex and an outer surface comprising six polyurethane panels, bonded to keep the ball the same weight and roundness in even the heaviest of rain (this was a ball with a water absorption rate of just 0.2%). Although based on the Brazuca from the 2014 World Cup, the Beau Jeu was modified to offer a rougher texture and better grip, and it underwent an 18-month period in which first a kicking robot – at adidas’s development centre in Herzogenaurach, near Nuremberg – and then professional players put Getty Images it to the test … for the goalkeeper is if he moves too quickly and the ball moves in the wrong direction as then he has lost balance,” says Bonner, “so instead of moving and trying to read the strike when it’s hit first, you are almost waiting an extra second and a half. That is not easy.”

Two to Tango If the modern ball places different demands on a goalkeeper, how about for attacking players? Chris Waddle, still playing amateur football in Sheffield, likens playing with balls today to playing in the altitude of Mexico at the 1986 World Cup. He cites the care that needs to be taken at corner kicks, when full power with a strike can send a ball flying too far. “How many corners do we see either go flat at the near post because they take a bit off, or go out the other side because they really do smash it?” he says. Waddle does not hesitate to name his own favourite ball: the adidas Tango, which was first introduced for the 1978 World Cup and had 20 identical panels with ‘triads’ creating the impression of 12 identical circles. The 1982 Tango España was the last leather World Cup ball, and Waddle played with Tangos in both the old English First Division and in his days in France at Marseille. “The Tango was the liveliest football I played with,” he remembers. “I loved it, it was really lively, you could fizz it and do a lot of things with it. The majority were quite thick and you had to put a lot on them; today you don’t have to put as much pace on them and the balls move that much.” Zbigniew Boniek concurs: for a player of the 80s, there was no ball like the Tango. “I really liked it. It was my first World Cup in 1978 and ‘When I was a boy, that ball was just perfect. If I could transport the ball was like a something from today’s football back to my treasure. The boy own playing days it would be the quality of with the ball was the ‘show’ – the stadiums and TV coverage. the king of the Football is sold so much better than before. But I wouldn’t bring the balls with me. I’d playground.’ want to play with the Tango forever.” Zbigniew Boniek Getty Images Presse Sports S concede as few goals as possible, an approach approach an possible, as few goals as concede to effort inan shop content up to shut often were who teams, by away adopted of play style defensive extremely time: the the at matches many European blighted that aproblem tackle to 1988. 1960 from secretary general organisation’s the Bangerter, Hans or, of Swiss precise, more to be of UEFA brainchild the was rule this world, the across competitions innumerous used now is stage.”it Although next the for qualifies goals away more scores which team the legs, two the over of goals number same the score ina involved teams two the if system, knockout the under played matches “For that: state UEFA League Europa and League Champions UEFA of the regulations current The years. 50 for almost of UEFA competitions part intrinsic an been has rule goals away The competition. to competition from and to sport sport from differ used methods the and it, doing 16 16 for European clubs, as well as saving organisational and travel costs. attacking play, it also helped to ease the pressure on an already congested calendar for several decades. Brought in during the second half of the 1960s to encourage Clubs’ Cup was launched in 1955, has been afundamental part of UEFA competitions The away goals rule, which was introduced ten years after the European Champion FOOTBALL’S FIRST TIE-BREAKER In the mid-1960s, Bangerter resolved to resolved mid-1960s, the Bangerter In – 2016 UEFA •December DIRECT simple, but there are numerous ways of ways numerous are there but simple, may sound encounter atwo-legged after terms level on are who teams two plitting goals in Prague. The first chapter had been been had chapter first The in Prague. goals three their to thanks qualified Honvéd Budapest sides, the to separate used have been normally would that play-off of the home).at Instead 2-1 leg second the losing before 3-2 inPrague leg first the winning Hungarians the aggregate, on (4-4 terms level on tie two-legged their finished (Czechoslovakia) Praha Dukla and (Hungary) Honvéd 16, last the Budapest in immediate: was 24 1965. March impact The on inRome Committee Executive by the taken Cup, adecision Cupthe following Winners’ in solely season, 1965/66 inthe basis atrial on introduced was 1965, rule April goals away the in rule difference goal by the replaced been legs. two after level were scores the if count double would team away by the scored goal each ‘revolutionary’: as describe later would he that arule devised Bangerter Committee, UEFA Executive the of and Cup committees, organising Winners’ Clubs’Champion Cup Cup European and European of the support the With spectacle. a as game the spoiling clearly was that Shortly after the goal average system had had system average goal the after Shortly in thesemi-finals(1-4, 3-0). (1-1, 0-0)andagainstRedStarBelgrade against Evertoninthequarter-finals away goalsruletoreachthefinal: Panathinaikos benefitedtwicefromthe Swart inthe1971EuropeanCupfinal. Panathinaikos againstAjax’s Sjaak Above: MimisDomazosinactionfor decided the winner in 8.3% of two-legged in8.3% of two-legged winner the decided has rule goals away the adopted, was it Since but never under threat Sometimes debated, ties. of such winner the to decide in1970/71 introduced was competition penalty the when completely scrapped were Play-offs of course. goalless, finished matches both if or goals, of away number same the and goals of number aggregate same the netting team each with identical, was legs inboth scoreline the if required only now were Play-offs goals. by away separated to be began teams once rarer became that one but conundrum, areal was This concerned. clubs both that suited dates to find to try calendar, also but inthe dates for additional to ask only not UEFA forced and of money alot clubs the cost crowds, small very drew matches these territory, neutral on Played legs. two after level was score aggregate the whenever held match was them. of organising cost the and matches of play-off number large the competitions: UEFA of the days early inthe arisen had that problem significant another to address secretary UEFA general former the enabled also rule goals away The to achieve. wanted Bangerter Hans what exactly is which ambition, attacking or of tactics in terms teams away and home between differences any major spot to age and day this in difficult is It advantage. asignificant secure thereby and to score to try teams visiting encourages often goal away 2010. since of an value period added The 41.7% reaching decade, on decade for the grown has teams by away scored of goals 1970, Since matches. four away proportion the any of their to win failed they 1967/68, when in did FC United Manchester as competition, inthe victory away asingle registering without League UEFA Champions the winning ateam to hard is imagine it Nowadays, to matches. approach teams’ away on impact ahuge had has rule the introduction, its Since scrapped Play-offs four. last in the Belgrade Red and Star quarter-finals in the FC Everton off to see rule goals away the on 1970/71 Clubs’ Champion relying Cup after the of final inthe Ajax to AFC lost who Greece, FC of Panathinaikos included beneficiaries notable first The season. 1969/70 the from 16, to UEFA all last competitions then the and Clubs’ Champion Cup of the rounds to up early to the applied gradually was rule the onwards, 1967/68 From followed. quickly many more and rule, goals away of the story in the written Before the new rule was adopted, a play-off aplay-off adopted, was rule new the Before

the fate of some of Europe’s biggest clubs. of Europe’s biggest fate of some the for deciding mechanism simpler, effective more a to hard is imagine it perfect, far is from rule the 2015, Although rule. goals away the on also in FC Chelsea out knocked side their when minds unfair? their changed probably so, they If was rule the think club’sFrench supporters in2014 FC Chelsea and (3-1, the 0-2). Did in 2013 to FC eight last the (2-2, 1-1) in lost they when running seasons two place asemi-final on out missed years, inrecent rule goals away of the victim frequent and notable most the Saint-German, Paris Meanwhile, München. Arena Fußball the at Griezmann (1-0, 1-2) Antoine from to agoal thanks München Bayern FC against semi-final League UEFA Champions their won Madrid de Atlético 2016, In matches. Clubfootball for example, important to decide season, each continues, and UEFA competitions club of the culture very the of part afully-fledged become years, 50 last the over has, rule goals away the criticisms, occasional these However, despite advantage. acrucial opponents their give would that agoal fearconceding they because attacking from – legs infirst –especially teams home dissuades it that claiming purpose, original to its counter runs nowadays rule of the impact the that think Some of debate. atopic frequently is home at scored one than weight more to carry goal away for an appropriate still is it whether Europe, across of play of styles in terms consistency greater and 1960s inthe than today easier much travel With stages. ingroup scored goals and total points on level finish that teams to split often, less albeit used, also is It time. over little changed that has afigure ties, League UEFA Europa and League UEFA Champions matches” to approach teams’ away on impact huge a had has rule the introduction, its ”Since in thethirdqualifying round. Europa League,eliminatingQarabağFK qualified onawaygoalsintheUEFA This season,FCViktoria Plzeň(inred) THE TECHNICIAN HISTORY

Getty Images Getty Images C the No to Racism flag, No to Racism armbands, armbands, Racism No to flag, to Racism No the with photos team official tongue, mother to racism’ intheir ‘No saying Messi Lionel and Ronaldo likes of the Cristiano featuring ad aTV With pitch. the off and on activities included which campaign, the witnessed partner. responsibility UEFA social along-standing network), FARE (aka in Europe the Racism Against Football by organised weeks action People Football the during held was campaign to Racism No of any kind. discrimination colour, reject we and skin or nationality language, background, family, our football of the whatever 20 October. 6and between played competitions club top 18 18 diversity. celebrating and discrimination against campaigning and, for the first time,UEFA Women’s Champions League have been Clubs competing in this season’s UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League ‘NO TO RACISM’ CLUBS SAY SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Millions of spectators and TV viewers viewers TV and of spectators Millions UEFA’s customary, become has annual As members all are we clear: was message The – 2016 UEFA •December DIRECT and xenophobia at 60 matches inUEFA’s matches 60 at xenophobia and intolerance to racism, no said Europe over all from officials and players lubs, of racist behaviour. of racist guilty found anyone against sanctions strict requires and to racism approach tolerance azero- 2013.May imposes resolution The in UEFA Congress by the adopted resolution anti-racism of the implementation ongoing its through least not campaign, to Racism No the beyond extend football from discrimination support. universal received and omnipresent was campaign the inmatch programmes, supplements to Racism No and T-shirts to Racism No wearing children UEFA’s efforts to eliminate all forms of forms all toUEFA’s eliminate efforts to Racism video Racism to No the Watch

UEFA President UEFA Aleksander Čeferin football” in place have no which discrimination, of forms all and racism to up stand wemust that strongly believe “I

Credits: Getty Images UEFA •December DIRECT SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY THE TECHNICIAN

2016 2016 – 19 THEFUTSAL TECHNICIAN

Russia take silver

In the final of the World Cup in Cali, Colombia, on 1 October, Russia were pipped at the post 5-4 by Argentina. Having made it to the last four but no further in 1996, 2000 and 2008, Russia made it through to the final this time, beating Iran 4-3 in the semi-finals. Along the way, Russia and Iran had knocked out two former champions, Russia having sent European champions and two-time world champions Spain (2000 and 2004) packing in the quarter-finals, while Iran had cut short the hopes of five-time world champions Brazil (1989, 1992, 1996, 2008 and 2012) in the round of 16. Portugal finished in fourth UEFA place, having lost the third-place play-off against Iran on penalties. Portugal’s star player, Ricardinho, achieved the accolade of top FUTSAL EURO 2018 scorer in the tournament with 12 goals, edging out Russia’s Eder Lima and Brazil’s Falcão, who QUALIFYING DRAW notched up 10 goals each. Spain and Azerbaijan went out in the With the dust barely having settled on the Futsal World quarter-finals, while Europe’s three other representatives Cup in Colombia, Europe’s national teams are already (Italy, Kazakhstan and Ukraine) gearing up for their next challenge, the qualifiers for saw their hopes dashed in the round of 16. UEFA Futsal EURO 2018 in Slovenia.

n 21 October, the names of the 47 Group A: Georgia, Switzerland, Israel, Group 3: Ukraine, Croatia, Belgium, teams with their sights set on Scotland winner of Group G O reaching the finals in Slovenia went Group B: Greece, Moldova, Wales, Group 4: Portugal, Romania, Finland, into the hat for the preliminary and main San Marino winner of Group C round draws, conducted at UEFA’s Group C: Latvia, Armenia, Estonia, Germany Group 5: Spain, Serbia, Poland, winner of headquarters in Nyon. The entrants include Group D: England, Bulgaria, Albania, Group B two newcomers to the European Futsal Malta Group 6: Kazakhstan, Czech Republic, Championship: Germany and Kosovo. Group E: Norway, Denmark, Cyprus, FYR Macedonia, winner of Group E By the end of the main round, the 47 Kosovo Group 7: Russia, Slovakia, Turkey, winner hopefuls will have been whittled down Group F: France, Andorra, Lithuania of Group F to 11, who will join hosts Slovenia in the Group G: Sweden, Montenegro, Gibraltar (Mini-tournament hosts in bold) final tournament. (Mini-tournament hosts in bold) The preliminary round, consisting of The seven main-round group winners will the following five groups of four and two The following groups were drawn for the qualify directly for the final round, to be held groups of three, will be played between main round, which will be played between 3 in Ljubljana from 30 January to 11 February 23 January and 1 February. and 12 April 2017: 2018. Meanwhile, the seven group runners- The winners of the groups will go Group 1: Italy, Netherlands, Belarus, up and the best third-placed team will through to the main round, where they winner of Group A contest play-offs over two legs (10–13 and will join those teams exempted from the Group 2: Azerbaijan, Hungary, Bosnia 24–27 September 2017) to determine the preliminary round: and Herzegovina, winner of Group D four remaining finalists.

20 – UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 AWARDS

UEFA FOUNDATION FOR CHILDREN AWARD WINNERS

he first UEFA Foundation for of life of children and young people trustees), Viviane Reding, Norman Children award winners were and their communities through sport, Darmanin Demajo and Sándor T announced at a ceremony held recreation, education and health. Csányi to present the 2016 awards. at the House of European Football in • Just Play: a programme that improves Responsibility for UEFA’s annual Nyon on 24 October. the lives of children in the Pacific €1m charity cheque was passed The UEFA Foundation for Children through football. from the UEFA Fair Play and Social selected five organisations or projects • Right To Play: an initiative that Responsibility Committee to the for its 2016 awards, the purpose of uses the power of play to educate UEFA Foundation for Children in which is to acknowledge and reward and empower children to overcome 2015, when it was decided to use efforts to promote peace, integration, the effects of poverty, conflict and the funds to finance annual UEFA social harmony, respect for differences disease in disadvantaged communities. Foundation for Children awards. and non-discrimination. • Magic Bus: a scheme that steers The board of trustees has established children towards better lives, with strict criteria for the awards. Nominees The inaugural award winners are: better awareness, better life skills must be charitable or philanthropic • streetfootballworld: a network that and better opportunities in their non-governmental organisations that unites more than 100 community journeys ‘from childhood to livelihood’. are active on a European or international organisations behind a common goal scale and put forward a project that – changing the world through football. UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin joined is both linked to football, or sport in • Colombianitos: a non-profit foundation trustees José Manuel Durão general, and in line with the principles organisation that improves the quality Barroso (chairman of the board of and objectives of the foundation. HONOURING SUPPORTERS

t its meeting in on 15 September, the Executive A Committee decided to present awards to the national associations of Iceland, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Wales in recognition of their supporters’ outstanding conduct at EURO 2016. The four associations received magnificent backing from their fans throughout their participation in the tournament, helping to create a festive, convivial atmosphere both inside and outside the stadiums. They not only supported their own teams but also respected their opponents and applauded good football, regardless of which side produced it. They were presented with commemorative plaques at European Qualifiers played in October and November. Getty Images The UEFA president, Aleksander Čeferin, chairing an Executive Committee meeting large part to the passion and dedication of enthusiastic and passionate during for the first time since his election the fans at all the stadiums in France. UEFA the tournament. Congratulations to previous day, said: “EURO 2016 was a wanted to reward some of the groups the national associations who are receiving celebration of football and this is thanks in of supporters that were particularly this award.”

UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 – 21 THE TECHNICIAN

“A manager needs to be a people person – you’ve got to like people, you’ve got to care for people” UEFA

22 – UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 THE TECHNICIAN

ROY HODGSON

“FOOTBALL COACHING IS NOT A SCIENCE, IT’S A GAME”

After 40 years of club and national team coaching in nine different countries, former England manager Roy Hodgson has a wealth of experience to share with the next generation of elite coaches. Taking questions from UEFA Pro licence students at a recent coach education student exchange in Nyon, he covered a wide variety of topics, from his first steps on the coaching ladder to the delicate task of dealing with the media.

was very lucky in my education with observe. When you’ve observed and you’ve Changing attitudes “ the English FA in the 60s and 70s. found something you think needs to be I don’t know that players have changed They simplified things for us coaches said, that’s when you go in and give that much deep down. I think society in those days. We didn’t have anything your instruction.” changes. Today, players are much more like the wealth of information you have They always wanted us to build training serious, much more professional in some Inow and we didn’t work as hard to get our sessions up. You started at a certain level ways. For example, if I take the England qualifications as you do to get your Pro and then you moved it on so the players team, the way the players look after licences today. But we had to follow very didn’t get bored just doing the same thing them­selves, the way they think about closely the simple methodology that the over and over again. That led to their diet, the extra training they want English FA, under Allen Wade and Charles progression. They also told us everything to do themselves without you having to ask Hughes, had set up. They taught us good we did had to be with opposition. Now, them, the seriousness with which habits. They taught us a lot about how of course, I don’t do absolutely everything they approach the training sessions, the we should approach a group: where we with opposition. Let’s say your topic was intensity they’re prepared to work at – should stand, how we should take care coaching your full-backs to go forward and all of those things are as good if not better of our appearance, our coaching manner, help out in attacking situations. than anything I’ve experienced in the past. that we should be sympathetic when we First you had to think about what sort of When I first went to Italy from the Swiss coached. They didn’t want people practice to do to create the opportunity to national team, what struck me was the screaming and shouting abuse at players; coach the player. What sort of things am seriousness with which the players they wanted us to coach in a way that I going to be looking for in the session? approached things, the enormous attention would show our sympathy for the players. What sort of things will the full-back need to the physical side of the game, the They were very strong on words like to know? Then I observe carefully and try importance of the conditioning trainer. We energy, enthusiasm and passion, and they to find a situation where it’s valid for me to hadn’t paid that degree of attention to that. gave us very simple tasks. They said: go in and coach. When I’ve found that We thought that the work in training every “When you’re doing your coaching session, situation, I stop the game, I coach in the day would take care of it. I saw another first you must prepare it in detail. Second, way that I’ve been taught to coach, and level of professionalism and I see an even before you start coaching, you need to then the game moves on. greater level of professionalism today.

UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 – 23 THE TECHNICIAN

advice before you go into press conferences. I think it’s dangerous, directly after a game, to go out with the emotions that you’re feeling because you can make mistakes. You need to settle down. It could just be your assistant coach, who says: “Don’t forget, be careful.” At top level a media officer might tell you what’s being said in social media, so you don’t get caught out. The television is the most important media because people see your face and they hear the nuances in your voice, and they feel to some extent what they think you are feeling. The written press is very dangerous. They can take the UEFA words that you say and make it sound very, very different to how it actually was. But Getting your message across Sometimes defenders and midfield players, you can’t beat them. You’ve got to Unless you can see in matches the effects sometimes midfield players and attackers. try to avoid the temptation to get some of the work you’re doing in the training We went through things, but we got them sort of revenge the next time you’re in sessions – such as the tactical patterns and to tell us back what we’d been trying front of that media group when you’ve ideas that you have in possession to tell them. We’ll work on it in training, read something you don’t like. and out of possession, even if they might but then I want the player in the unit Most importantly, speak through the not be succeeding – then something’s meetings, when he sees it, to say: mass media to three very important wrong with the way you’re preparing it. “I should have gone out there, I should groups of people: your players, your One of the things I’ve learned in the last have gone quicker there,” or “I’ve gone fans, and the owner [of the club] and two years was overestimating players’ too fast, I should have slowed down there other people above you. Use the media understanding of exactly what you want. – I’ve gone so quickly that the guy’s gone to get your message out. Be aware You have to make certain that they past me before I can hold him up with that whatever is written, or whatever themselves take ownership of the the ball.” That type of thing. We got you say, whether those people like it situation. In the last couple of years [with the players to take ownership. or not might be the most important England], we filmed training sessions, thing. They’ll be watching every word you we filmed the games in wide angle, and Managing the media say, and they can be very, very disappointed we started having meetings in smaller It’s important you have someone with you sometimes in your comments to the media. groups. The goalkeeper and the defenders, who you trust, and who understands the You can lose them by saving yourself with the midfield players, the attackers. media world, who can give you some the mass media, protecting yourself.

Roy Hodgson is thrown in the air as Halmstads BK celebrate their first TT Swedish league title in 1976. THE TECHNICIAN

ROY HODGSON CAREER FACTFILE

Roy Hodgson has managed a number of club and international sides during his long career in football:

Halmstads BK (SWE) 1976-1980 Bristol City FC (ENG) 1982 IK Oddevold (SWE) 1982 Örebro SK (SWE) 1983/1984 Malmö FF (SWE) 1985-1989 FC Neuchâtel Xamax (SUI) 1990-1992 Switzerland 1992-1995 FC Internazionale Milano (ITA) 1995-1997 Blackburn Rovers FC (ENG) 1997/1998 FC Internazionale Milano (ITA) 1999 (caretaker)

Grasshopper Club (SUI) 1999/2000 FC Copenhagen (SWE) 2000/2001 Udinese Calcio (ITA) 2001 “I don’t know that United Arab Emirates 2002-2004 players have changed Viking FK (NOR) 2004/2005 that much deep down. I think society Finland 2006/2007 changes. Today, Fulham FC (ENG) 2007-2010 players are much Liverpool FC (ENG) 2010/2011 more serious, much West Bromwich Albion FC (ENG) 2011/2012 more professional.” England 2012-2016 PA

First coaching experience football clubs have turned out to be not You need a philosophy of leadership. I didn’t even have an assistant coach when I only good coaches but very good people. A manager must be able to transmit to went [to Halmstads BK in 1976], so it’s a I’ve benefited from them. It would have his players his passion and his enthusiasm very different world to the world we’re been a mistake to go in and say: “Right, for the game – and that takes energy. talking about, and certainly the world I’ve all of you out.” I would never employ anybody, if I was just come from with the England national a chief executive or owner of a football team. In those days from the moment the The qualities of a top coach club, that I didn’t think had those qualities: players arrived I did everything – I took the If you believe in your coaching skills, energy, enthusiasm and passion. warm-up, I took the cool-down, I did the you’ve got to believe that you’ll make the The manager must always be thinking physical training, I did the technical training, team better. Even though they might not be of the players and putting himself in their I did the tactical training. It’s a bit different as good, player for player, as the top teams, shoes: what’s best for them, not what’s today. Going into a job today you’ll be you’ll make them into a better unit. The top best for me. You need to be a people thinking: “Who am I going to take with side might have better individuals but they person – you’ve got to like people, me? What people do I need?” You need a might not be a better team. When you’re you’ve got to care for people. Bobby balance in the people around you. People coaching, you’ve got to be prepared to take Robson was fantastic for that. That’s travel in groups – you don’t just appoint a some risks, because football and football a great skill. When they lose a game, manager; you appoint a team and they coaching is not a science, it’s a game. You you’ve got to feel sympathy with them, become very, very close. I’ve never done never know quite what’s going to happen and not anger that they’ve let you down. that, and I’m not certain it’s such a good in the game. You’ve got to sell everything There’s a lot more. One is resilience, thing. You might lose people in the club you do to the players. You’ve got to make being able to bounce back; another is who could help you, because they’ve got a certain that the players understand it and humility. It’s very easy in football to get good knowledge of the club. Over the they agree with it and then it’s well worth carried away – a sense of perspective is years, the people that I’ve inherited at taking risks sometimes. important in coaching, just as it is in life.

UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 – 25 T THE TECHNICIAN exchange events at UEFA headquarters in Nyon in Nyon UEFA at headquarters events exchange student four-day its and ofwave coaches, knowledge. their to broaden look they as pen for the pitch the have swapped least, at term short in the who, alumni successful programme’s the are among and Inzaghi Shevchenko, Filippo Cannavaro, Andriy likes of Fabio The boots. their up hanging after game inthe make and acareer licence UEFA Pro their to obtain need they skills the with coaches of generation next the equipping is which programme, exchange student UEFA coach the to inpart thanks is That destination. popular increasingly an becoming is it days, playing their ending after infootball to stay looking 26 26 coaches move astep closer to obtaining the UEFA Pro licence. Two recent student exchange events in Nyon have helped budding GAME THE LEARNING THE TECHNICIAN UEFA is committed to helping train the new new the train to helping UEFA committed is – UEFA • DIRECT of the world’s top players, but for those for those but players, top world’s of the some to find expect normally would you somewhere be may not hall lecture he December 2016

educators, but also to meet and interact with with interact and to meet also but educators, of Europe’s coach top to some access from job. of the aspect every on quizzed are coaches the as popular particularly proving Asessions Qand with knowledge, their on to pass available themselves have made Hodgson Roy and Schaaf Thomas far term, this So guests. special as attended all having Hitzfeld Ottmar and Southgate Gareth Leekens, Georges Moyes, David with coaches, top-level of experienced insights 2011, the from profited have also students profession. of the understanding their to deepen sessions theoretical and in practical participate and level aEuropean on experiences to share opportunity the associations give Pro licence from member students “This programme allows attendees to benefit to benefit attendees allows programme “This in began programme exchange the Since

UEFA chief technical officer technical chief UEFA Ioan Lupescu countries other from students with interact and meet to also but educators, coach top Europe’s of some to benefit from access to attendees allows programme “This ”

UEFA UEFA • DIRECT THE TECHNICIAN December December 2016 2016 – 27 THE TECHNICIAN 26 26 – UEFA • DIRECT December 2016 that target. Since 2011, Since target. that 21 have some events achieving towards step important an become UEFALeague. Europa and League Champions UEFA club, inthe or for atop-division to work inorder level) Coaching Convention Pro at UEFA of the amember not is association the if available licence (or highest licence the Pro have the must coaches Head B licences. UEFA Aand of the completion after obtained be can and to coaches, available certification coaches. facing challenge only the not is asquad and of players out most the getting that highlighted meanwhile, match-fixing, on Adiscussion media. the handling on session a during interviews flash to conduct feet their on were students the and practice, and theory to is aim balance The coach. goalkeeper the on Bonner Packie international of Ireland Republic former from a talk and best the from learning included instructors and weaknesses. clips, illustratingvideo the teams’ strengths including presentation, aten-minute conduct evening’s the match and asked to analyse also were groups different The performance. their to evaluate chance the coaches the giving reviewed, was way.that session Each it to do wanted they why and it to do wanted they how session), of the (i.e.train goal the to wanted they what explaining exercises, the to introduce minutes ten given were Coaches session. training of the objective the to illustrate clips video using coach, goalkeeping one and coach assistant one coach, head one involving session practical a45-minute run and prepare asked to were coaches student the association, by Grouped them. to combat how and styles attacking different teams’ two the on emphasis an with Barcelona, and City Manchester between tie League UEFA Champions night’s by that inspired was course November for the UEFA HQ. from road the across centre Colovray sports the at ground training to the shifted focus the before development, player youth elite and team-building decision-making, game, inthe trends included classroom inthe Topics addressed in Nyon. courses recent most to the came (November) EnglandBelgium, Denmark, and Kazakhstan and (October) Ukraine and Scotland Poland, said. Lupescu Ioan officer technical practice,” UEFA chief of best examples and opinions by exchanging experiences coaching their to broaden opportunity the from otherstudents countries and use The student exchangeThe programme has level highest the is licence UEFA Pro The by UEFA’s covered technical subjects Further sessions teaching practical the of first The Moldova, from 150 than More students

view on things.” on view international amore and information new with home go and happy leave always here brought we’ve students Danish “The generation. next the nurture helping technicians of respected of UEFA’sa member group the Panel, Jira do,” they what Rudbæk, seeing said and countries other with being from benefit really students future. “The inthe well them serve should programme the from gain students the that the internationalAssociation, perspective Football Danish of the director atechnical is and course November the at possession on students and our educators to develop.” educators our and students our both helped really course The England. and Denmark Belgium, from colleagues with to communicate chance the have had and training analysing and conducting structuring, organising, about knowledge and information of lots received “We experience,” said. he great a was what from benefiting really are we and there educators coach five and 21had students “We home. back to colleagues on to pass plenty was there course, November the at was who Adambekov, director, centre Kairat technical of Kazakhstan’s Federation Football for the and programme, in the participate also associations different the from Coach educators campus. UEFA the on courses attended having students of figure 1,800 impressive an place, with taken For Peter Rudbæk, who delivered a talk atalk delivered who Rudbæk, Peter For

December UEFA •December DIRECT education exchange programme. coach UEFA the in part taken have coaches student 1,800 2011, some Since THE TECHNICIAN 2016 2016 –

27 UEFA FOR THE RECORD

LATEST ELITE CLUB INJURY STUDY PUBLISHED

UEFA is helping top European clubs by former UEFA Medical Committee Among other statistics, there is data measure the injury rate of their players vice-chairman Professor Jan Ekstrand, on exposure time, general injury in a renowned medical study that is the study is heralded as an unrivalled patterns, training injuries, match entering its 16th year. historical archive of football injury injuries, severe injuries, muscle Each season, the UEFA Elite data. The data provided represents injuries, ligament injuries, recurring Club Injury Study provides clubs, a comprehensive information source injuries, and squad attendance/ associations and the scientific about injury patterns, risks and the availability and absences. community with crucial data that likely prevalence of certain injury The latest report contains results helps them in their own work in types, as well as for diagnosing when from July 2015 to June 2016 for treating and preventing player injuries. a player will be fit to return to action 29 elite clubs and is available on Launched in 2001 and coordinated after injury. UEFA.org.

Contact/non-contact incidence Injury severity

71.5% Non-contact

0.7%

18.6% 15.7% 27% 1.5% 22.8% Player contact 42.2%

Object contact

Slight [0 days]

Minimal [1-3 days]

Mild [4-7 days]

Moderate [8-28 days]

Severe [>28 days]

28 – UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 FOR THE RECORD

Occurrence Jul 7.5% of injuries Aug 7.9% (by month) Sep 10.7% Oct 10.8%

Nov 9.5%

Dec 8.5%

Jan 10.9%

Feb 11%

Mar 9.1%

Apr 8.9%

May 5.2%

Jun 0%

12.0% ١٢ Occurrence of muscle 11.4% 10.7% ١٢ ١٠ 10.3% ٨ ٦ ٤10.3% 10.1% ٢ (month by١٠) injuries٠ 9.1% 8.8% ٨

6.1% 6.3% ٦ 5% ٤ ٢ 0%

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun ٠

Occurrence of ligament injuries (by month) ١٥

13.1% 13.1% ١٢ 10.8% 10.8% 10.2% 9.1% ٩ 8.5% 8.0% 7.4% 6.8% ٦

٣ 2.3% 0%

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun ٠

UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 – 29 GRASSROOTS NEWSLETTER

UEFA GRASSROOTS WEEK TAKES HOLD The second edition of UEFA’s annual week of football development activities grabbed the imagination of organisers and participants throughout Europe.

futsal marathon in Belarus; age categories, and at promoting football Latvia a champions festival for Down’s and sports activities for everybody. In Latvia a staggering total of 11,300 people A syndrome children in Romania; took part in 114 separate events as the a tournament in Scotland involving families Czech Republic Latvian Football Federation (LFF) encouraged from Syria; and a maxi-pitch handover Local primary school pupils in the Prague people from outside the football family to in the Czech Republic. These were just suburb of Suchdol were the first to enjoy organise football-related activities. They some of an amazing number of events playing on a brand-new maxi-pitch were given just one guideline: to ‘let football that took place across Europe from 10 to donated by UEFA as part of Grassroots into their backyards’. 17 September to mark the second UEFA Week. Prague was selected for this honour Event organisers were entered into Grassroots Week. as the European Capital of Sport 2016. a competition with prizes including VIP In conjunction with the European “A few months ago this place was tickets for the national team’s next home Commission’s European Week of Sport a car park and storage place, so this is match and a trip to Portugal with the (#BeActive), UEFA asked its member a miraculous change,” said the school’s national squad. Celebrities from the associations to advertise, facilitate, head teacher, Alexandra Kejharová. “The worlds of television, theatre, music and encourage and inspire participation in all maxi-pitch will be a great attraction for sport took part, many of them featuring forms of football to celebrate the grassroots our pupils and will tremendously improve in a charity football tournament that was

NZS game in Europe. Events were aimed at all our possibilities to play sport.” part of the festivities.

30 – UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 GRASSROOTS NEWSLETTER

“We consider this a unique chance frame. After the match the Birkirkara FC At the national football centre in Brdo, Slovenia, for everyone to be involved in popularising players presented their medals to the and on pitches throughout Europe, UEFA Grassroots Week was an opportunity to celebrate football and healthy lifestyles,” said FFM children. the joy of football with children and adults of all Jānis Mežeckis, LFF general secretary. The Malta Football Association also ages and from all walks of life. “Grassroots Week in Latvia highlights teamed up with the armed forces of the vast accessibility of football and Malta to support the activities of the shows it as a sport with no limits.” ministry of health’s child development and it was here that 30 teams and 300 and assessment unit for this year’s World players took part in 15 matches during a Malta Physiotherapy Day, which coincided with futsal marathon on the first day of UEFA In Malta the activities kicked off with the UEFA Grassroots Week. During the day Grassroots Week. At a festival in Minsk, women’s between Hibernians a number of fun races, obstacle courses meanwhile, they found the Best Football FC and Birkirkara FC, where children and football activities were organised Family in Belarus: every player won points from Frame Football Malta (FFM) for the children taking part. for their family according to the results of accompanied the players and referees their team, and with teams drawn by lot, as player escorts for the game. Frame Belarus many new friendships were formed. Football is specifically designed for players Gomel, home to nearly half a million For the seven regions of Belarus, there who require the use of a walker-style people, is Belarus’s second largest city, were seven festivals for 700 girls

UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 – 31 GRASSROOTS NEWSLETTER

and boys aged 9–10, while the 16 professional clubs held masterclasses in local secondary schools. Back in the capital city of Minsk, four teams involving 40 players with cerebral palsy took part in one tournament, while six teams and 42 players with learning disabilities played LFF in another. There was also a masterclass for younger players with learning disabilities.

Turkey In Turkey UEFA Grassroots Week was celebrated in 14 cities. A total of 56 schools and around 3,000 children took part in events under the supervision of 14 regional coaches and 56 volunteer coaches, mostly from professional or amateur clubs. With no PE teachers in Turkish primary schools, UEFA Grassroots Week represented a golden opportunity to nurture a love of football in the youngsters, 30% of whom were girls.

Armenia Five events were organised by the Football Federation of Armenia (FFA) across the regions of Gegharkunik, Shirak, Aragatsotn and Syunik. More than 500 children took part, learning about football, making new friends and MFA gaining in confidence. Supported by Above: Heads up in Lithuania, where girls took part in football festivals across the country, parents, volunteers, local communities and while over in Malta special Frame Football sessions were organised for children with limited municipalities, the instructors organised mobility. Right: The maxi-pitch laid in Prague, the 2016 European Capital of Sport, as part of ball games, relay races, mini-tournaments, UEFA’s contribution to the European Week of Sport. football quizzes and round-table discussions. museums, autograph sessions with 200 children took part in a festival “The Grassroots Week activities famous players, involvement in pre-match that drew together young and inspired them, and they felt confident ceremonies for big games and much more. old, boys and girls, children at risk, as full members of the children’s Open Fun Football Schools took place children with learning disabilities, community,” said Lala Yeritsyan, the FFA’s during UEFA Grassroots Week in the volunteers and parents. Former national grassroots specialist. “The event gave historic city of Rivne, Oleshyn village in team coach Ilija Petković and fellow them moments of happiness, participation, Khmelnytskyi, Kyiv’s Spartak stadium former internationals Stanislav Karasi, communication with friends, freedom and in Pidhaitsi, in the Ternopil region. Mitar Mrkela and Perica Ognjenović and fantasy.” Local community leaders These were the first of more than 50 also lent their support. also emphasised the positive impact that schools scheduled between now and “Working with young people has Grassroots Week had on the Armenian April 2017. Along with the FFU’s other always been one of the main tasks children and their families. major social project, Play Away, Play of of Serbia,” Everywhere, it is intended that Open Fun said deputy secretary general Jovan Ukraine Football Schools will significantly expand Šurbatović. “Football is a game that The Football Federation of Ukraine (FFU) the network of grassroots volunteers in connects people and brings a lot of used UEFA Grassroots Week as the every region of Ukraine. joy, and that is what we can see on the launch for its Open Fun Football Schools. pitches of Ada Ciganlija.” Ilija Petković These five-day programmes aim to help Serbia added: “We need to provide more of internally displaced children throughout In the summer, more than 100,000 people this action all over Europe and the world, the country overcome alienation from a day visit the Ada Ciganlija peninsula in because grassroots is the essence of local children through grassroots football. Belgrade to take advantage of its beaches football. I can say only the best about As well as organising football games and and sports facilities, and it was at the UEFA Grassroots Week and I hope this providing kit, psychological and social help technical centre here that the Serbian FA event will become a tradition that lasts was offered, plus excursions to football celebrated UEFA Grassroots Week. Around for years.”

32 – UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 and who is continuing his outstanding outstanding his continuing is who and 2015in the Awards UEFA Grassroots Leader Best named was who Karpavičius, Martynas was organisers active most of the Tauragė One Kaunas. and of Marijampolė, regions in the place taking festivals football with in Lithuania, events Week inUEFA Grassroots involved actively very were girls and Women Lithuania for all.” of football aweek been really has This has. game national our appeal the demonstrates have we had turnout the and backgrounds, different from people together to way bring agreat provides Football Scotland. across communities by embraced have been week this place took that events grassroots “The said: FA, Scottish the at development regional of head Gould, Andy activities, different week’s the up Summing in football. adults and children refugee engaged Scotland, to 12-year-olds inPaisley, western here.”of futsal progression and organisation the with impressed very were we and participating, time first our was This players. futsal other against compete and tofor us meet good was “It said: Ade Michael player as and, inScotland game adeveloping is Futsal inEdinburgh. centre performance sports new Scotland’s , at event futsal open an was of which a highlight Week, inUEFA Grassroots part took of backgrounds range adiverse from ages of all people 3,000 over Scotland In Scotland part. taking also veterans and Olympics Special policemen, and non-competitively playing children with inBrdo, centre football national for the planned was event main the inSlovenia while inBudapest, children 800 involving event of alarge-scale cancellation the forced adeluge where inHungary, fortunate so not were They andHungary Slovenia promoted activities. their grassroots clubs offer, on the prizes and while of games plenty with stadium, football a as designed hall own its had LFV The fair, trade LIHGA. the biggest country’s in the part by taking Week Grassroots UEFA marked clubs seven its and (LFV) Association Football The Liechtenstein A Syrian families football session for 5 session football families A Syrian

special event took place in Jucu, a small asmall inJucu, place took event special another to all, while happiness bring to football of ability the demonstrated inBucharest Down’s syndrome with aprize. winning taker free-kick best the with festival inafootball part took girls and boys 240 border, where Moldovan the on Husi, as such communities smaller to Timisoara and Bucharest as such cities big from country, of the parts in different events ten organised associations, county local with inpartnership (FRF), Federation Football Romanian The Week. Grassroots UEFA during inRomania competitions and activities the enjoyed people 2,000 Over Romania necessary.” is pitch a real even not creative, are you If teams. two match between astandard just fun, not as of football concept the use you when helps pure. It and high very are emotions Their before. football played have not who community local the from people involving of “I like challenge the Karpavičius. said female,” were participants of the thirds two- that is out stands really what but involved, homes foster from kids and schoolchildren participating, families with intotal, “We’ve four events had groups. social and ages of different people involving beyond, and Kačerginė of town small inthe work grassroots A tournament dedicated to children to children dedicated A tournament

tournament in eastern Romania. Romania. ineastern tournament agrassroots organised who Baicu, to Costel goes word last the But Week. of UEFA Grassroots growth the ensured of which all countries, many more Burleanu, president of the FRF. of the president Burleanu, gender,” their or age Răzvan their said matter no football, love who people to our and values to football dedicated celebration, outstanding an to be proved inRomania Week UEFA Grassroots year’s “This demonstrated. tournament over-35s an as Romania, soccer beach in Week UEFA Grassroots celebrated families. their with Montenegro and Romania between 2018to watch the Cup World qualifier and camp to atraining children invited and for aday stopped caravan scouting FRF’s inCluj the county,village where beloved sport, football!” sport, beloved most intheir to compete chance – the prize biggest the back them gave we and children, of our trust the thing, important most the We gained children. our and ourselves to challenge opportunity the us gave Week of UEFA Grassroots framework souls,” “The and said. he hearts their all with involved got association football Vaslui the county and Federation Football Romanian the participants, the because Cup success areal was Hușana “The There were many other events in events many other were There who children only not was it And GRASSROOTS NEWSLETTER

Jan Tauber UEFA FOUNDATION FOR CHILDREN

SUPPORTING REFUGEE AND MIGRANT CHILDREN ACROSS EUROPE In light of the sharp increase in migration to Europe and the humanitarian disasters this has triggered, the UEFA Foundation for Children has invested €2 million donated by UEFA to support those most affected by the crisis, including 15 countries across Europe, using football to help them offer new hope to refugee and migrant children.

Greece: Terre des Hommes, Diogenis, and Organization Earth Hungary: Oltalom Sport Association Italy: Balon Mundial Netherlands: Foundation Northern Ireland: Sport Against Racism Ireland Republic of Ireland: Sport Against Racism Ireland Serbia: Football Friends Spain: Red Deporte y Cooperación Ukraine: Scort Foundation and FC 1893 Sport4Life UK Sport4Life United Kingdom: Sport4Life, Start Again Project, and Tigers Sport and hile continuing to support the wider football family, with the street- Education Trust countries bordering conflict footballworld network helping to coordi- The activities run by these organisa- W zones, the UEFA Foundation nate operations. tions in support of young refugees for Children has been supporting the So far, 23 organisations in 15 countries include: efforts of Terre des Hommes to provide have benefited from this fund: • weekly football sessions; emergency humanitarian assistance to • tournaments involving local host unaccompanied children and families with Belgium: Royal Europa 90 Kraainem FC communities; children under five in FYR Macedonia and Bosnia and Herzegovina: Football Friends • language courses and training Greece since March 2016. France: Sport dans la Ville for coaches; In addition, the foundation has created Georgia: Cross Cultures Project • CV writing and interview technique a €1,250,000 fund to support the integra- Association (CCPA) workshops for young adults. tion of migrant populations, and child Germany: AMANDLA EduFootball, More than 30,000 people have already refugees in particular, in host communities Champions ohne Grenzen, KICKFAIR, benefited from these programmes. Of in Europe. Activities have been run by and RheinFlanke and FC Internationale these 30,000, 65% are child refugees NGOs, national football associations and Berlin 1980 e.V. themselves and 35% are the teachers, coaches and social workers who have been trained to keep the various activities going. The UEFA Foundation for Children is also supporting displaced persons in Ukraine and has donated €250,000 to the ‘Play away, Play everywhere’ project run by the Football Federation of Ukraine. The aim of the project is to promote the social integration of displaced children and encourage them to adopt healthy lifestyles by playing FFU FFU sport, in particular football.

34 – UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 RESEARCH GRANTTHE PROGRAMME TECHNICIAN

MENTAL HEALTH IN SCOTTISH FOOTBALL To give its readers a taste of the work supported by the UEFA Research Grant Programme, UEFA Direct is showcasing a selection of research projects funded by the 2015/16 programme. This month, Katy Stewart presents details of her study, which investigates the incidence of mental health issues in Scottish football.

Subsequently, 160 players completed phase 2 of the study, which looked to identify players ‘at risk’ of mental health issues. Using existing validated questionnaires, this identified 25% of players as having mental health problems that required medical intervention, with a further 5% of players currently undergoing specialist therapy with a clinical psychologist. Results also identified key times in a player’s career when they were more ‘at risk’:

• Those nearing the end of their contract/ career: uncertainty regarding their future • Those out on loan from their club: lack of support and social isolation • Those out of the game due to long-term injury: uncertainty regarding their future, social isolation and increased frustration at themselves

The highly significant results of this study have demonstrated the need to provide coordinated support for players and the need for this to be specialist-led with expertise beyond that available at club or even family Getty Images doctor level. This has resulted in the creation of a mental health action plan for Scottish football he Mental Health in Football project which will provide support and a referral supported by the Scottish FA and PFA pathway for club doctors and coaches for T Scotland (players’ union) aimed to players who would benefit from additional investigate the incidence of mental health specialist intervention, with input from issues in Scottish football – an area where counsellors, clinical psychologists and anecdotal suggestion of a significant psychiatrists. Players will also be able to incidence has, until now, not been subject self-refer, and it is planned to extend this to scientific study. support to coaches and women’s football. Over 600 questionnaire responses were In addition to the mental health action received in phase 1 of the study and the plan, the continued commercial funding the results indicated that 64% of players admitted initiative has secured will allow educational to having had or known someone with mental and awareness resources to be developed and health issues, including problems with alcohol, UEFA maintained. These will include business cards drugs or gambling. Our data suggested that for all players with details of how to contact Katy Stewart currently works at players would be most likely to contact their Hampden Sports Clinic as a researcher. the programme, posters for dressing rooms, own family doctor (58.9%) or club doctor She is an affiliate of the Institute of and development of a specialist application (51.8%) if they were having issues, with a Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences at for mobile devices containing self-help the University of Glasgow, with her preference for face-to-face counselling previous work focusing on information, details of the programme rather than a telephone helpline. cardiovascular screening of athletes. and contact information.

UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 – 35 F IN CLUB FINANCES CLUB IN TRENDS POSITIVE hosted by the Malta Football Association. Football Malta by the hosted workshop the at revealed figures encouraging 36 financialand trends. Financial Fair Play Workshop, which addressed awealth of current licensing challenges CONCACAF and CONMEBOL gathered in Malta for the 14th UEFA Club Licensing wand From 21 to 23 September, representatives of UEFA’s member associations, the AFC, FINANCIAL FAIR PLAY are in are reporting countries European steeply, from 15 from steeply, in2014 to 25 in2015. introduction of financial play in fair 2010. of financial introduction the before 19% recorded level of the just at stand now losses European means This €320m. over just at stood currently and year, consecutive fourth for the decreased had losses club combined that indicated clubs 700 of over review Adetailed football. club of European finances inthe turnaround the confirmed UEFA research latest the that heard afield further and Europe across from Figures indicate that the number of of number the that indicate Figures experts 160 financial and licensing Some – finances,demonstrated as by the football club European in turnaround apositive fair creating is play inancial UEFA • DIRECT a net profit position has increased increased has position profit a net December that their clubs clubs their that 2016 not rest on our laurels,” he said, “but always laurels,” our on “but always rest said, not he should “We development. football on focus future the welcomed Committee, UEFA Club the Licensing chairs Gill, who and management. administration club within decision-making long-term influence as well as football, youth women’s and support can licensing club how on focussed also year’s gathering This Financing development football 2014June 2016). June and between 72% 37% and almost respectively (down to players payments deferred and 92%), indisputed nearly reduction the and 2016 June 30 at as of €5m over (a decrease €57m from in2011 payables overdue to just in decline the playis fair of financial effect evidence demonstrating the strong Other Executive Committee member David David member Committee Executive

UEFA’s associations. member across experts and managers of licensing support and work hard constant the without achieved have been not would that a result – inLausanne (CAS) for Sport Arbitration of Court by the times several recognised have been in2010, of which out legality the set objectives the all inmeeting succeeded play had fair financial few seasons, relatively Licensing and Financial Fair Regulations. Play Financial and Licensing UEFA Club inthe areas development two the to improve how on associations member UEFA’s from support and feedback to gather development.” their to significantly contribute can system the believe Ifirmly whereby football, youth and women’s as such in areas further, especially it develop and system the to improve strive The workshop featured panel discussions discussions panel featured workshop The Delegates agreed that, in the space of of space inthe that, agreed Delegates

D. Aquilina EDUCATION

FIRST UEFA GRADUATES IN FOOTBALL LAW From 12 to 15 September, the final session of the first edition of the UEFA Football Law Programme was held at the House of European Football in Nyon. UEFA

total of 24 graduates from national Given the inherent complexity of legal specific to sports law – and, even more associations, professional clubs and matters and the constant developments specifically, football law – equipping them Alaw firms dealing with football legal in this field, it is also crucial to foster to take on new challenges in this rapidly matters graduated from the first edition of cooperation between all parties to better developing domain. the UEFA Football Law Programme after 12 address upcoming challenges. “Given the complexity of the legal topics intensive months of work and study. The “The legal field is constantly evolving and in football, it is important that all members highly diverse group consisted of participants is, as such, a permanent challenge. The UEFA of the football family cooperate and of 21 different nationalities. Football Law Programme is an excellent way understand their respective positions. The Certificate of Advanced Study in to gain a greater understanding of the legal Participants on this programme gain Football Law (worth 10 ECTS credits) is environment, in terms of both evolutions stakeholder knowledge, as well as the issued by Kadir Has University (Istanbul, and specificities. I am convinced this tools and ideas needed to improve overall Turkey) in cooperation with the University of programme helps to better address the legal cooperation,” explained Wouter Lambrecht, Padova (Italy), Rey Juan Carlos University challenges sports organisations, in particular legal manager of the European Club (Madrid, Spain) and UEFA. the national associations, face today and will Association (ECA). face in the future,” said Alasdair Bell, UEFA’s Taking football law general counsel and legal affairs director. Second edition coming in 2017/18 experts to a new level The programme comprises four week-long The sporting world has reacted very The Football Law Programme is one of sessions, which are held in academic positively to this new specialised educational UEFA’s newest educational programmes. institutions across Europe, and during which offering, and enquiries are already being It was developed to respond to the participants examine key issues and topical received about the second edition, which is challenges brought about by the complex, aspects of football law. The programme planned to start in autumn 2017. fast-changing world of sport. In this has been developed and is run by UEFA, in Preparations are under way and potential environment, it is essential that the UEFA close collaboration with internationally participants can mark spring 2017 in their member associations and other football renowned academic experts and diaries as the date when the application stakeholders are aware of the legal stakes practitioners. The underlying aim of the process will begin. More information will be involved in the modern game and are fully programme is to enable more members of provided on UEFA’s website and in its equipped to handle them appropriately. the football family to acquire new skills publications as and when available.

UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 – 37 CZECH REPUBLIC

NATIONAL GRASSROOTS CONFERENCE

The Football Association of the Czech Republic (FAČR) recently organised its first-ever grassroots conference, bringing together representatives of all the country’s regional and district associations.

plan taking us up to 2020. Next spring we want to organise conferences like this one for the clubs in each of our 14 regions, because we need to cascade information from UEFA and the FAČR right down the pyramid,” he said. A comprehensive membership database gives the national association all the information it needs about membership and player numbers in every region and district. “Thanks to that we can see which regions and districts are strong and which are struggling, and we can focus attention on increasing those membership numbers,” FAČR grassroots manager Michal Blažej concluded. “This

FACR is one of the main targets for our regional grassroots managers. We’ve had positive ore than 110 grassroots delegates the FAČR nurtures the grassroots of the feedback on our new grassroots coach gathered in Prague to hear game and how successful it has been in education initiatives and on our quality seal Mabout the UEFA Grassroots this area, receiving UEFA HatTrick awards for non-professional clubs, through which Charter, the FAČR’s brand-new four-year in 2012 (membership project) and 2015 each club can apply for gold, silver or strategic grassroots plan and several (Football (R)evolution), as well as picking up bronze licences. We want to put a strong other exciting new projects in the field UEFA’s 2015 grassroots project of the year emphasis on girls’ and women’s football as of grassroots football. award for the My First Goal programme, well,“ he said. There were many decision-makers which has helped the association to attract in attendance, including the national thousands of new grassroots players all ‘Flying coaches’ association’s general secretary, Rudolf over the country. “But still we need to The FAČR currently has one grassroots Řepka, the vice-presidents and members of work on the image of football in the Czech manager and a ‘FAČR-mobile’ in each the executive committee, and the Republic and promote our new grassroots of the country’s 14 regions. The aim is head of the grassroots department, projects,” the general secretary urged. to have one in each of the 76 districts Otakar Mestek, and his team. Those projects are presented in the FAČR’s in the near future. Grassroots managers “The FAČR is the governing body of 2016–20 strategic plan, which was are responsible for running teams of football in the Czech Republic and as unveiled at the inaugural national ‘flying coaches’ who help to train coaches such it is responsible for all the football grassroots conference. in small clubs, teachers in schools and activities in the country,” the general kindergartens, and parents. Under the secretary reminded the delegates. “We Quality seal new strategic plan, a lot of effort will promote the values of respect, humility, “We are here to exchange ideas and be put into supporting traditional and cooperation, healthy living and positive projects, to inspire people throughout walking football for over-60s, as football emotions and feelings – values that football the Czech Republic and to make sure is considered one of the healthiest sports brings to the whole community. These the necessary information reaches all for people in this age bracket, and new values are as important for the senior our regions and districts,” the head of features will be added to the My First national teams as for talented youth players the grassroots department, Otakar Goal programme, including a DVD for and the rest of the football family at Mestek, told the conference. “Nowadays, parents, containing basic football exercises grassroots level, which it must be said everything is so fast-paced, and we must and skills, a summer camp for 100 children accounts for the bulk of our work.” reflect this evolution in our work. That is and new equipment packs designed The general secretary emphasised how why we have drawn up a new strategic especially for girls.

38 – UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS

ALBANIA www.fshf.org PROMOTING GENDER EQUALITY IN THE STADIUM

TRITAN KOKONA

‘HeForShe in the stadium’ is an initiative of UN Women (the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women) in partnership with the Albanian Football Association which will involve ten Albanian Superliga matches in nine cities between October and December. The initiative is all about informing and raising the awareness of fans inside and outside stadiums about the issue of gender equality. The Albanian Football Association is supporting this initiative by making its infrastructure available. The campaign has already been run at five stadiums staging Superliga matches, as well as before the Albania v Spain World Cup qualifier at the Loro Boriçi stadium in Shkodër, where solidarity messages were read out and the player escorts wore FSHF HeForShe T-shirts. The national and indeed global movement to engage men and boys as In Albania, renowned figures in the movement for gender equality is mainly agents of change and promoters of gender worlds of sport, culture and politics, led by women. However, the commitment equality – to create an environment in and even ordinary people, have joined of boys and men (the other half of which boys and men from around the the HeForShe initiative to defend the humanity) is key in order to develop it world speak openly, are committed and rights of women and girls – a cause further – hence the creation of HeForShe, take action against the inequalities faced which the Albanian Football Association set up by UN Women as a solidarity by women and girls every day. is proud to support.

ANDORRA www.faf.ad FUTURE TALENT

XAVI BONET

Andorra recently hosted mini- Behind these results were some tournaments in the first qualifying outstanding performances by a number

rounds of both the European of players we expect to see a lot more FAF Under-17 and Under-19 Championships. of in the future, including Irish defender In the Under-17 competition, the Lee O’Connor, Kazakh striker Yerkebulan from 2-0 down. The Israelis then secured Andorrans were drawn into Group 2 Seidakhmet, Greece’s Alexandros a 5-0 win over Liechtenstein and a 1-0 alongside Greece, the Republic of Ireland Gkargkalatzidis and Andorran defender win over Scotland, who finished as group and Kazakhstan. The Greeks and Irish Joël Guillén. runners-up. qualified for the second round with a game In the Under-19 competition, Andorra In this age category, the future in hand having both won their first two hosted Scotland, Israel and Liechtenstein. looks particularly bright for Israel’s matches, against Andorra and Kazakhstan. Israel won all three of their matches to top Anas Mahamid, Scottish striker Oliver The Republic of Ireland went on to finish the group, beating Andorra 3-2 in their Shaw, Liechtenstein’s Silvan Marxer and top of the group after a 1-0 win over opening game with a penalty four minutes Andorrans Álex Martínez, Jordi Aláez and Greece on the final matchday. from time after the hosts had come back Miguel Del Castillo.

UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 – 39 MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS

AZERBAIJAN www.affa.az WHY NOT?!

NIGAR GASIMOVA

On 30 August, just before the qualifying campaign, with a 1-0 triumph start of the qualifying competition over Norway, added to September’s for the 2018 World Cup, the victory in San Marino and away draw Association of Football Federations against the Czech Republic. Sceptical of Azerbaijan (AFFA) launched the at first, the supporters’ attitude

#NIYEDEYOX?! (Why Not?!) campaign, changed after the first win, and by AFFA which has become the motto of the the away match against the Czech senior national team. Though competing Republic, the campaign had gone A whopping 4.5 million people were in a rather difficult group, the team viral. The motto could be seen almost reached on Facebook, Instagram and have pledged not to be easy opponents everywhere: on posters, on the streets, Twitter, and 8.7 million impressions for anyone and to fight until the end to in a promotional video on TV, in all the were viewed. achieve the best results. social media posts associated with the What is more, following these three And it is working! The team made match, and even in interviews with the matches, Azerbaijan rose from 117th to a promising start to their World Cup head coach and players. 88th position in FIFA’s world rankings.

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA www.nfsbih.ba WOMEN’S UNDER-17S ON THE RISE

FUAD KRVAVAC

The Bosnia and Herzegovina On a much more positive note, senior national team have got our women’s Under-17s have achieved off to a mixed start in the remarkable success by qualifying for European Qualifiers for the 2018 World the elite round of their European Cup. After beating Estonia 5-0 in their Championship, finishing their qualifying first match, Mehmed Baždarević’s men round group in Skopje in second lost the second 4-0 away to Belgium in place with six points, behind Austria. Brussels, before beating Cyprus 2-0 Following a 4-0 win against Northern three days later in Zenica. Ireland, Ilija Lučić’s girls then lost 4-1 Meanwhile, the Under-21s failed in against Austria, before beating the hosts their attempt to qualify for next year’s from FYR Macedonia 4-0. Our women’s European Under-21 Championship final Under-19s were not as successful, falling round in Poland, losing their last qualifying at the qualifying round of their European match 5-0 against England and finishing championship. In the mini-tournament their group in last place with just three hosted by our federation in Bijeljina points and no wins. The Under-19s have, and in Stanišić Ethno Village, Nikola however, made it through to the elite Nikić’s players lost 3-0 against Portugal round of their European championship. and 5-1 against Sweden, before beating

In the qualifying round, Toni Karačić’s Krvavac F. Georgia 1-0 to finish third. boys first conquered mini-tournament Last but not least, our representatives hosts Lithuania 3-0, followed by a 2-1 Macedonia in Zenica, with Bore Mattan’s in the UEFA Women’s Champions win against Azerbaijan and finally, in the team winning the first one 7-3 and the League, SFK 2000 Sarajevo, did fight for top place in the group, a 3-1 visitors taking their revenge 3-1 in the themselves proud, making it through defeat against Austria. On the club front, second. In the main round of the UEFA to the round of 32, where their journey HŠK Zrinjski lost the second leg of their Futsal Cup, playing in Foligno (Italy), ended, having come away from their first round UEFA Youth League tie 6-0 MNK Centar Sarajevo came bottom of first-leg home match against Russia’s against FC Zürich, having already lost the the group after losing all three of their FC Rossiyanka with a goalless draw and first leg in Mostar 3-0. matches, against Sporting Clube de losing the return leg in Moscow 2-1, Over in futsal, our national team Portugal (7-1), hosts Real Rieti (7-3), and Rossijynka’s winning goal coming in played two friendly matches against FYR FP-Halle Gooik from Belgium (4-3). the fourth minute of added time.

40 – UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS

BULGARIA www.bfunion.bg SPORTS CLINICS NAMED FIFA MEDICAL CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE

PUBLIC RELATIONS AND MEDIA DEPARTMENT

The Eurovita sports clinic accreditation will help the development development of football and sport in and the Dr Dimitar Shoilev of sports medicine in Bulgaria. At the our country,” the sports minister said. traumatology, orthopaedics same time, I really hope the clinics The two clinics in Bulgaria are the and sports medicine hospital have will have fewer patients, which means first in the Balkan region to achieve officially become FIFA Medical Centres healthier athletes. This could be FIFA accreditation. of Excellence. Both clinics received achieved by using the excellent concepts their accreditations from the chairman for the prevention of injuries which of the FIFA Medical Committee, Dr the two clinics already have,” Borislav Michel D’Hooghe, at a special ceremony Mihaylov said. in Sofia. The event was attended by “So far, only 33 medical institutions the minister of youth and sports, have received FIFA accreditation, which Krassen Kralev, and the president of is an acknowledgment of the service the Bulgarian Football Union, Borislav and high level of our specialists. I am Mihaylov, who had strongly supported extremely pleased with the recognition the clinics’ bids for FIFA accreditation. they have received. I hope they will “Congratulations to the managements continue to hold high standards in of the two clinics. I hope their FIFA the coming years, which will help the BFU

CROATIA www.hns-cff.hr TAKING A STRONG SOCIAL STANCE

TOMISLAV PACAK

With the Croatian national team capturing six points in the European Qualifiers for the 2018 World Cup, October was a successful month for the Croatian Football Federation (HNS), which used the media and public focus on football to deliver strong messages on important social issues. First up, the HNS and Croatia’s top division clubs took part in the FARE Football People action weeks by promoting the fight against racism, discrimination and violence at football stadiums. The Croatian national team spent some time with Romani children, HNS while the city of Bjelovar hosted the sixth national minorities football camp, regional marketing meeting, bringing of the UEFA Marketing Advisory in which 85 boys and girls from different together marketing and commercial Committee, said: “We share similar backgrounds took part. directors from Bosnia and Herzegovina, challenges in this region and I strongly Then, the Croatian national youth teams FYR Macedonia, Romania, Serbia and support meetings such as this in order gave their support to World Heart Day by Slovenia to discuss different marketing to share knowledge, experience and taking Healthy Heart Selfies to promote issues and projects. Welcoming the information among marketing experts. healthy habits and inform the public about participants, UEFA Executive Committee Football associations need greater cardiovascular diseases. member and HNS president Davor Šuker, income from marketing to support their In other news, the HNS hosted the first who also serves as a deputy chairman development projects.”

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CYPRUS www.cfa.com.cy ALL DIFFERENT, ALL EQUAL

CONSTANTINOS SHIAMBOULLIS Costakis Koutsokoumnis (right) and Costas Kadis One of the priorities of the Cyprus Football Association (CFA), within the framework of its social responsibility, is to eliminate racism from football and from Cypriot society in general, and to promote tolerance and acceptance of differences. In its efforts in this direction, the CFA has the cooperation and support of the ministry of education. Together, they have launched a four-year programme to be rolled out in all the country’s educational establishments. The programme and its various activities, which are grouped under the slogan ‘All different, all equal’, were presented at a press conference CFA given by the CFA president, Costakis Koutsokoumnis, and the minister of other forms of discrimination, including Special Olympics Cyprus has accepted the education, Costas Kadis. The aim is discrimination against people with physical CFA’s invitation to support and participate to educate pupils against racism and or learning disabilities. In this context, in the implementation of the programme.

FAROE ISLANDS www.football.fo UNDER-17S WRITE HISTORY

TERJI NIELSEN

For the first time ever, a their last match, the Faroe Islands drew The boys now go through to the elite Faroese national youth team 2-2 with Luxembourg, after being 2-0 up, round, to be played in the spring in has progressed from a UEFA and at the same time Switzerland and the the form of eight four-team mini- qualifying tournament, thanks to our Czech Republic drew 3-3. This meant that tournaments. From there, the group Under-17 boys, who finished second in the Faroe Islands finished second in the winners and seven best runners-up their European Under-17 Championship group, behind Switzerland but above the advance to the finals to join the qualifying group in October. other two teams. hosts, Croatia. The Faroe Islands were in the same group as Switzerland, the Czech Republic and mini-tournament hosts Luxembourg. They got off to a flying start, beating the Czech Republic 2-0 in the opening game in the group, to everyone’s great surprise. Apart from being a very good win for our boys, it also meant that they stood a very good chance of qualifying from the group if they could manage even just a draw from one of their remaining matches in the group. Switzerland were next up, but this was a very different match, with the Swiss team well on top throughout the game, which finished 4-0 to Switzerland. But in FSF

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FRANCE www.fff.fr MEN’S AND WOMEN’S UNDER-19S FETED

LAURA GOUTRY

The team were greeted at the ‘official residence’ of the French national team by Noël Le Graët and by and his players. Congratulating the Under- 19s, Deschamps said: “The fact you’re here is very symbolic. This special place is normally reserved for senior national team players. So you’re heading in the right direction.” Meanwhile, Gilles Eyquem’s girls were special guests at France’s World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria at the Stade de France, where they were introduced to Noël Le Graët and the new coach of

FFF France’s senior women’s team, Olivier Echouafni, before the game. Noël Le France’s men’s and women’s French Football Federation (FFF), Noël Le Graët said he was very proud of the FFF’s Under-19 teams, who became Graët, at two special ceremonies. training strategy, which was behind the European champions within On 30 August, Ludovic Batelli’s boys success that the youth teams were now days of each other this summer, were were honoured at a reception held at enjoying. “It has been a fabulous summer congratulated by the president of the Clairefontaine, the national training centre. of football for France,” he concluded.

GEORGIA www.gff.ge WOMEN’S TITLE GOES TO KUTAISI

OTAR GIORGADZE

The first ever full-format leadership of the Georgian Football interest among girls across the country. Georgian women’s football Federation (GFF). Six teams from various Martve Kutaisi secured the title early, championship took place this regions of Georgia took part, and the having conducted a consistent and year, initiated and backed by the new new format was a subject of great dominant campaign. “When you look at our girls’ determination and attitude towards their job, you will see that women’s football has a future in Georgia. The women’s game is developing fast in Kutaisi, as well as in other cities across the country. It’s great that the championship is now being played in a full format, and the girls will be getting a lot of playing time. I’m delighted that we’ve managed to win the title – this is a great incentive for the young players,” said Paata Dograshvili, the head coach of Martve. The final round of games took place on 4 November. The champions received their awards from GFF and UEFA representatives at the Mikheil Meskhi GFF Stadium in Tbilisi.

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GIBRALTAR www.gibraltarfa.com 92 NEWLY QUALIFIED COACHES

STEVEN GONZALEZ

As part of the Gibraltar FA’s the inaugural course in that field. coaching partnership with In addition, 23 coaches completed the Welsh Football Trust their general level 1 certification, (WFT), three different coaching courses bringing the total number of newly

were delivered in October, during which qualified coaches to 92. GFA a total of 92 candidates were successfully Three tutors also received the assessed. necessary qualifications to enable the specific courses such as for goalkeeping For the first time ever, a futsal Gibraltar FA to deliver its own level 1 and futsal. The continued support coaching course was held in Gibraltar. and futsal level 1 courses in the near of the WFT to coaching in Gibraltar, 48 candidates were assessed and all future, under the supervision of the WFT. and its commitment to the long-term passed their futsal level 1 certificate, Before establishing a coaching partnership with the Gibraltar FA, meaning that Gibraltar can now boast partnership with the WFT, the Gibraltar is something that that everyone at 48 newly qualified futsal coaches. FA relied on coach educators coming the GFA is immensely grateful for, as it Goalkeeper coaching is one of out to Gibraltar to deliver basic coaching will ensure the progression, education the most specific areas of football courses, with candidates having to and development of Gibraltarian coaching and all 21 candidates passed travel abroad to undertake the more football coaches.

ITALY www.figc.it REPORT ON THE ECONOMIC VALUE OF FOOTBALL IN ITALY

DIEGO ANTENOZIO

The Italian Football Federation amateur football accounted for 24%, (FIGC) has published a report that or €913.3 million. The FIGC’s net revenues reveals football’s contribution to totalled €153.5 million (4% of the total), the Italian economy. The report analyses while the organisers of the various revenues, expenditure and the overall leagues produced revenue of around €68 economic value of the football industry, million (2%). Overall expenditure was just with a breakdown of the contribution below €4.3 billion, with professional clubs made by different sections of Italian accounting for 73% (€3.1 billion), and

football, including the FIGC itself, the FIGC youth and amateur football accounting organisers of the various leagues, for 21% (nearly €920 million). The FIGC’s and the professional and amateur clubs both professional and amateur football. spending amounted to €149.5 million (4% involved at the various levels of the game. It’s a sort of MRI of Italian football as a of Italian football’s overall expenditure), Entitled Il Conto Economico del Calcio whole, giving us a picture of what lies resulting in a net profit of around Italiano (‘The income statement of Italian under the surface.” €4 million, its best result since 2008. football’), the report was produced The analysis brings together quantitative As CEO Michele Uva explains, “Football in collaboration with Deloitte, with and qualitative data on a sport whose is one of Italy’s great passions, but it is additional input from the economic national governing body represents more than that. It drives economic growth research division of the Italian finance 1.4 million registered players, coaches, and social development, and creates jobs. ministry, and the national institute club officials and referees and oversees This document is the first of its kind – of statistics. 600,000 official matches each year. a new type of research that, over the “As a big football nation, we consider In 2014/15 Italian football accounted for years to come, will help us to better this comprehensive study to be in 11% of football’s global market value, understand football’s contribution keeping with our leadership role in the generating aggregate revenues of more to the Italian economy as a whole.” international footballing community”, than €3.7 billion. Of this total, 70% was The report (available in Italian and the FIGC president, Carlo Tavecchio, said. generated by the professional game English) can be downloaded from the “This report is the first of its kind to cover (nearly €2.6 billion), while youth and ‘Transparency’ section of www.figc.it.

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LATVIA www.lff.lv NEW LEAGUE CHAMPIONS CROWNED

TOMS ĀRMANIS

The 2016 season in Latvia’s top FK Spartaks Jūrmala hail from the resort division, the Virslīga, has given town of Jūrmala and were founded in Latvian football new champions, 2007. They managed to win the Latvian with FK Spartaks Jūrmala becoming the second division (third tier) in the first strongest football club in Latvia for the year of their existence and then spent first time in their history. the next four seasons in the Latvian This season has seen a complete first division (second tier), making their change at the top of the Virslīga table. Virslīga debut in 2012. Until now, their From last season, only FK Ventspils best result was to finish in fifth place, succeeded in defending their position which they did in 2012 and 2015. This among the top three, and while last year they also reached the final of the year’s champions, FK Liepāja, finished Latvian Cup for the first time, but lost this season in fourth place, FK Jelgava 1-0 against FK Jelgava. managed to finish in the top three for Since 1992 Latvian football has had only the second time in their history. LFF six different Virslīga champions.

LIECHTENSTEIN www.lfv.li FOOTBALLER OF THE YEAR, PETER JEHLE

ANTON BANZER

National team goalkeeper Peter 27-year-old goalkeeper Benjamin Büchel to football in Liechtenstein. This year’s Jehle was named Liechtenstein’s in recognition of the determination with volunteer of the year award was footballer of the year for 2016 at which he has pursued his football career. presented to Lorenz Gassner of FC the annual awards ceremony held at the And last but not least, tribute Vaduz, who has played an active role beginning of October. The 34-year-old was paid to the principality’s tireless in the club’s youth football activities FC Vaduz gatekeeper, who already has volunteers and their vital contribution for many years now. 124 caps under his belt, was awarded the coveted trophy for the second time (the first was in 2014). He was chosen by experts and fans for his outstanding performances for both club and country, and was presented with his award by long-time Liechtenstein team-mate Mario Frick, whose record of 125 caps Jehle is fast approaching. The other nominees for footballer of the year were Marcel Büchel (Empoli FC), Simone Grippo and Stjepan Kukuruzović (FC Vaduz), and Sandro Wieser (Reading FC). Meanwhile, the coach of the year award went to FC Vaduz’s head coach Giorgio Contini, who also picked up the prize in 2014. The 41-year-old Swiss, who once again steered his team to safety in the last season, was selected ahead of Nathanael Straub (FC Schaan) and Vito Troisio (FC Ruggell). The 2016 special award for Mario Frick (right) and Peter Jehle outstanding achievements went to LFV

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MALTA www.mfa.com.mt SEMINAR ON BRIBERY AND BETTING IN FOOTBALL

ALEX VELLA

On the recommendation of the committee members. Media and task Malta FA’s executive committee, force members would also be invited the association’s integrity office to a special edition of this integrity recently held a seminar on bribery and programme. Tabone then spoke about betting for premier league and first the Malta FA’s local and international division club administrators. In line collaboration with several organisations. with its efforts to guide all the game’s This created an important relationship stakeholders, the association’s input which assisted the association in in this area is commendable. It runs its intelligence-building process, he programmes for football participants explained.

aimed at tackling difficult situations Another speaker, Adrian Camilleri, D. Aquilina involving match-fixing and other the association’s prosecutor, focused malpractices which they may come up on the technicalities of regulations and bodies, was another speaker. He against. laws, and on the responsibilities of explained the secure systems the Maltese The seminar, introduced by the players and club officials aware of bribery authority puts into practice and the association’s integrity officer, Franz attempts. Betting regulations prohibiting information it can access in relation to Tabone, also covered initiatives introduced players and officials from placing wagers punters. This work makes it possible to by the Malta FA in recent years. on matches at all levels were also identify suspicions about illegal betting. Franz Tabone announced that another emphasised. The Malta FA is constantly on the integrity event would be held soon in The chief enforcement officer of the lookout for new opportunities and collaboration with Sportradar AG for Malta Gaming Authority, which works partnerships to strengthen its approach Premier League players, coaches and closely with other European gaming in the battle against match-fixing.

MOLDOVA www.fmf.md NEW VISUAL IDENTITY LAUNCHED

MARKETING DEPARTMENT

The Football Association of was introduced at the beginning bravery, victory and power, and can also Moldova (FMF) is going through of November. be found on Moldova’s national coat of a phase of modernisation and The new logo retains the shield shape arms. The association’s image will also continued development. As part of and the key element – a ball – and is feature a modern font already used on this process, a new visual identity completed by an eagle, which signifies the national team’s kit. The new visual identity aims to share the association’s passion for football with each citizen of the country, and to bring fans even closer to its events. A new FMF website will be launched shortly. It will be easily accessible from any device, especially mobile ones, where match results and other information will be just a click away. The website will also feature an online shop, where fans will be able to buy products licensed by the national team as well as match tickets. The new visual identity will gradually be rolled out on promotional material FMF from the end of the year.

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NORTHERN IRELAND www.irishfa.com NATIONAL STADIUM UP AND RUNNING

NIGEL TILSON

Northern Ireland’s new Northern Ireland first minister, Arlene national football stadium has Foster, and deputy first minister, Martin been officially opened by the McGuinness, were among the guests at FIFA president, Gianni Infantino. The the opening ceremony hosted by the Irish inauguration of the redeveloped FA president, David Martin. ground at Windsor Park in Belfast The Northern Ireland Executive and the took place before Northern Ireland’s department for culture, arts and leisure 2018 World Cup qualifier against San (now the department for communities) Marino in October. provided the £38m funding for the

The FIFA president, who unveiled a redevelopment of the home of Northern IFA plaque to mark the occasion, said: “With Ireland football. The project, which took David Martin (right) and Gianni Infantino this project the Irish Football Association 29 months to complete, has seen three is both safeguarding its historical legacy new stands built at the stadium, which number one sport in the world. and reshaping its football home in a way now has a capacity of 18,600. The ground is also now the Irish FA’s that fits the country’s needs. Windsor The Irish FA chief executive, Patrick HQ and houses the offices of both the Park has been transformed into a Nelson, said it was a fitting home for Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL) compact, world class stadium.” Northern Ireland’s involvement in the and Linfield FC.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND www.fai.ie DUNDALK CLINCH THIRD CONSECUTIVE TITLE

STEPHEN FINN

Dundalk FC have become the Park home proved to be pivotal, and most talked about Irish club despite an impressive campaign on all across the football world thanks fronts themselves, John Caulfield’s City to their exploits in the UEFA Europa could not catch Dundalk. League this season, but on the domestic Dundalk sealed the title with a 2-1 front they are just as focused on creating win over Bohemians on 23 October and history. Managed brilliantly by Stephen the country hailed manager Kenny and Kenny, the Lilywhites recently secured his history-making squad. They become their third premier division title in a just the third Irish club to win the title row after an incredible end to the three seasons running and will seek to domestic season. equal Shamrock Rovers’ legendary four-in- The County Louth club showed a-row side of the 1980s next term. unbelievable energy across a number of Having also become the first Irish club fronts. In the space of 30 days, Kenny’s to pick up a point in a Europa League tie side had to squeeze in a testing ten and then win a group game at that stage fixtures in the FAI Cup, premier league and of the competition, Dundalk are bidding Europa League, starting on 29 September, to head into unchartered territory by when Dundalk beat Maccabi Tel Aviv 1-0 qualifying from their group this winter. in a thrilling UEFA Europa League Group D Their achievements this year saw Daryl encounter at Tallaght Stadium thanks to a Horgan voted the Professional Footballers’ Ciaran Kilduff winner. Association of Ireland’s player of the year While closest rivals Cork City were by his fellow professionals. Cork City’s ready to pounce on any slip-ups by the success was recognised with striker Sean champions, it did not turn out that way. Maguire earning the young player of the Dundalk’s 2-1 win over Cork at their Oriel Sportsfile year award.

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ROMANIA www.frf.ro

for the Under-19 national team. INVESTING IN THE FUTURE If, after those three years, the relevant amounts are not be invested accordingly, PAUL ZAHARIA the difference between the amount which should have been invested and Concerned by the poor results generated by the transfer of players will the amount which was actually invested achieved by the Romanian have to be redistributed by clubs to their will be payable to the FRF, which will national youth teams in recent own academies. To begin with, this will redirect the funds to its affiliated clubs years, the Romanian Football Federation only be a mandatory part of the licensing according to the number of youth teams (FRF) decided it was necessary to process for the top two leagues, in at each club. The executive committee address this problem by modifying its order to allow all the clubs to adjust also decided that clubs which do national club licensing regulations and, their budgets, provisions and strategy not provide the mandatory financial in particular, by introducing a monitoring accordingly. information requested by the FRF will and control system with regard to Clubs will have three years to face fines of around €22,000. the way clubs redistribute money to comply fully with the requirement and This is the first time that the FRF their academies. to reinvest the money generated by has introduced such a monitoring and This was the main point on the the transfer of players in buying kit, control mechanism, which should be agenda of the FRF executive committee organising training camps, covering regarded as a further step in persuading meeting held on 24 October, where the costs of accommodation, coaches’ its affiliated clubs to pay the necessary it was decided that, starting from the salaries and infrastructure, as well as in attention to youth development, to 2018/19 season, 10% of the income recruting players who would be eligible ensure the future of Romanian football.

SLOVAKIA www.futbalsfz.sk GETTING MORE GIRLS INTO FOOTBALL

PETER SURIN

As part of its activities to promote women’s football in Slovakia, the Slovak Football Association is involved in organising sports festivals for girls, exposing more girls to football and promoting the sport among them. As the girls who come along are mainly interested in having fun, the programme offers a variety of physical activities, from sack races to goal- shooting practice, with prizes for the winners. However, it is the football tournament that draws in the crowds. SFZ The girls throw themselves into the matches with incredible passion and just a game. Even if some of the girls do year on year. In the first half of 2016, enthusiasm. not become active players in the future, three festivals were held, attended by “It’s extraordinary to see how girls we hope they will remain active football 241 girls and 58 volunteers in total. of nine or ten who may never have fans.” These are the words of the Slovak Financially, the festivals are supported kicked a ball before get excited during FA’s women’s football coordinator and by the Slovak FA and individual clubs the matches, about the goals and active footballer, Alexandra Biróová, or regional associations. supporting each other. We even saw who currently plays for Austria’s reigning After the summer break, two more tears of sadness when a girl missed champions, SKN St. Pölten. events took place, with another two a goal. Football brings up all sorts of The festivals are aimed at girls under scheduled before the end of the year emotions, from the first moment till the age of 12, some of whom encounter and eight pencilled in for 2017. “With the last. Our main objective is to give a football for the first time. They started 60 participants having come to one the tournament participants a positive three years ago and the number of festival, our goal is to get at least 500 feeling while realising that football is participants and events is now increasing girls involved next year,” Biróová added.

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SWITZERLAND www.football.ch REACHING OUT TO REFUGEES

PIERRE BENOIT

At the end of October, Switzerland’s professional football clubs took part in Together2016, a campaign organised by the Swiss Football League and the clubs in partnership with the State Secretariat for Migration, the Swiss Refugee Council and the Office for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to highlight football’s all-important role in fostering social integration. During the week-long campaign, club officials, players and coaches spoke of their personal experiences, and activities were held in local communities to raise awareness of what it means to Admir Mehmedi be a recognised refugee or a temporarily SFV admitted person, and of how important their successful integration is for society speaking on behalf of many a to make lots of friends.” BSC Young as a whole. professional player, described his early Boys midfielder Leonardo Bertone, who Activities included a ‘match of peace’ years in Switzerland: “It was very hard to describes himself as Bernese born and involving locals and refugees, training begin with because I only spoke Italian bred, was delighted when 300 refugees sessions to which refugees were and Albanian. Because I wasn’t able to were invited to a Young Boys match and specifically invited, and the distribution talk to anyone, it wasn’t an easy time for given the opportunity not only to watch of free tickets to football matches. me. It was only when I could understand a match but also to meet people with Swiss international Admir Mehmedi, German that I felt good and was able similar interests.

UKRAINE www.ffu.org.ua OPEN FUN FOOTBALL SCHOOLS IN EASTERN UKRAINE

YURI MAZNYCHENKO

For three days, from 30 September Since the seminar, the first Open Fun to 2 October, the Football Federation Football Schools project in eastern of Ukraine organised a seminar for Ukraine has been implemented in the 120 Open Fun Football Schools volunteers, Derhachi district of the Kharkiv region. with a view to providing grassroots On 21 October, nearly 200 children festivals for displaced children in the gathered in the local stadium to take Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhya part in different football activities. regions. The workshop was held at FC “This year has been one of the most Metalist Kharkiv’s stadium and on the prolific in the history of the Open fields of the local football academy. Fun Football Schools,” said project The participants – PE teachers, football coordinator Yevhen Stolitenko. “The coaches, school psychologists and police schools have already covered 56 districts representatives – shared their experience and cities in Ukraine, involving 12,000 about the development of grassroots children, half of them displaced, and football and social projects. 1,500 adult volunteers.” FFU

UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 – 49 THEUEFA TECHNICIAN

FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DIARY OF EVENTS The UEFA president, Aleksander Čeferin, has continued to meet with European football leaders, as well as with other public figures.

UEFA 24 October UEFA UEFA 20 October 25 October The president of the UEFA Foundation for Children, The president of the Cyprus FA, Costakis José Manuel Barroso, and board members (from left The president of the Swedish FA, Karl-Erik Nilsson Koutsokoumnis to right) Sándor Csányi, Viviane Reding and Norman Darmanin Demajo AFP-Getty Images

26 October UEFA 9 November FIBA 10 November

The president of the German FA, Reinhard Grindel The president of the Turkish FA, Yıldırım Demirören The secretary general of the international basketball (left), and the mayor of Munich, Dieter Reiter federation (FIBA), Patrick Baumann (right), and the president of FIBA Europe, Turgay Demirel AFP-Getty Images AFP-Getty Images

11 November 16 November Meridian Match 17 November

The president of Ukraine, Petro Poroshenko The president of the Hungarian FA, Sándor Csányi The president of the Bulgarian FA, Borislav (right), and the mayor of Budapest, István Tarlós Mihaylov

50 – UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 BIRTHDAYS, NOTICES, FORTHCOMING EVENTS

BIRTHDAYS NOTICES

John Ferry (Northern Ireland, 1 December) Artan Hajdari (Albania, 17 December) • Esther Gascón Carbajosa Sergei Roumas (Belarus, 1 December) Guntis Indriksons (Latvia, 18 December) has replaced Jorge Juan David R. Griffiths (Wales, 2 December) Niklas à Lidarenda (Faroe Islands, Pérez Arias as general Carmel Agius (Malta, 2 December) 18 December) secretary of the Royal Ligita Ziedone (Latvia, 2 December) Rainer Koch (Germany, 18 December) Spanish Football Federation. Sean Dipple (England, 3 December) Jacco Swart (Netherlands, 18 December) 50th Juan Antonio Fernández Marin (Spain, Patrick Filipek (Czech Republic, • Koen De Brabander has 3 December) 18 December) replaced Gérard Linard Gylfi Thor Orrason(Iceland, 3 December) Ludvik S. Georgsson (Iceland, 19 December) as general secretary of Josipa Flam (Croatia, 3 December) Harri Talonen (Finland, 19 December) the Royal Belgian Football Janusz Basałaj (Poland, 4 December) David Casserly (Republic of Ireland, Association. Miroslav Liba (Czech Republic, 4 December) 19 December) Ioannis Farfarellis (Greece, 4 December) José Nebot (Spain, 20 December) Ján Kováčik (Slovakia, 4 December) Edgars Pukinsks (Latvia, 20 December) Georg Lüchinger (Liechtenstein, Willie Young (Scotland, 21 December) FORTHCOMING EVENTS 4 December) Bjarne Berntsen (Norway, 21 December) 60th Adrian Ixari (Moldova, 4 December) José Henrique Da Costa Jones (Portugal, Meetings Desislava Ralkova (Bulgaria, 4 December) 22 December) 1 December, Cracow Maurizio Montironi (San Marino, Olzhas Abrayev (Kazakhstan, 22 December) European Under-21 Championship: final 5 December) Josef Geisler (Austria, 23 December) draw Christiaan Timmermans (Belgium, Pia Hess-Bolkovac (Germany, 23 December) 6 December) Laszlo Vagner (Hungary, 24 December) 1 December, Nyon Heather Rabbatts (England, 6 December) Irina Mirt (Romania, 24 December) Development and Technical Assistance Antonio Manuel Almeida Costa (Portugal, Noël Le Graët (France, 25 December) Committee 6 December) Patritiu Abrudan (Romania, 25 December) Stilian Shishkov (Bulgaria, 6 December) Laura Montgomery (Scotland, 2 December, Nyon Andrea Agnelli (Italy, 6 December) 25 December) Stadium and Security Committee Andreas Akkelides (Cyprus, 7 December) 70th Nikola Muzikova (Czech Republic, Ray Ellingham (Wales, 7 December) 25 December) 8 December, Nyon Johan van Geijn (Netherlands, 7 December) Guy Goethals (Belgium, 26 December) Youth and Amateur Football Committee Raili Ellermaa (Estonia, 7 December) Servet Yardımcı (Turkey, 26 December) Andrea Manzella (Italy, 8 December) Rudolf Repka (Czech Republic, 9 December, Nyon Michel D’Hooghe (Belgium, 8 December) 26 December) Executive Committee Vitaly Mutko (Russia, 8 December) Bernhard Heusler (Switzerland, Konstantin Sonin (Russia, 8 December) 27 December) 12 December, Nyon Les Reed (England, 9 December) Nils Fisketjonn (Norway, 27 December) UEFA Champions League: round of 16 draw Dušan Bajević (Bosnia-Herzegovina, Dušan Tittel (Slovakia, 27 December) 50th UEFA Europa League: round of 32 10 December) Krisztina Varga (Hungary, 27 December) and round of 16 draws Leif Lindberg (Sweden, 10 December) Bernard Carrel (Switzerland, 28 December) UEFA Youth League: play-off draw Christian Andreasen (Faroe Islands, Martial Saugy (Switzerland, 28 December) 10 December) Otakar Mestek (Czech Republic, 13 December, Nyon Alain Hamer (Luxembourg, 10 December) 28 December) 2016/17 European Under-19 and Under-17 Trefor Lloyd Hughes (Wales, 11 December) Evangelos Mazarakis (Greece, Avi Levi (Israel, 11 December) 29 December) Championships: elite round draws Ilcho Gjorgjioski (FYR Macedonia, Anders Solheim (Norway, 29 December) 2017/18 European Under-19 and Under-17 11 December) Dagmar Damkova (Czech Republic, Championships: qualifying round draws Alvaro Albino (Portugal, 12 December) 29 December) Competitions Fiona May (Italy, 12 December) Hans-Hubert Vogts (Germany, 6/7 December Kaj Natri (Finland, 13 December) 30 December) 70th UEFA Champions League: group matches Stefan Messner (Austria, 13 December) Wolfgang Thierrichter (Austria, (matchday 6) Antonio Mortagua (Portugal, 14 December) 30 December) UEFA Youth League – Champions League Bülent Konuk (Germany, 14 December) Matt Crocker (England, 30 December) path group matches (matchday 6) Ged Poynton (England, 15 December) Jean Fournet-Fayard (France, 31 December) Dušan Svoboda (Czech Republic, Horst Brummeier (Austria, 31 December) 8 December 15 December) Christian Moroge (Switzerland, UEFA Europa League: group matches Steve Stride (England, 16 December) 31 December) (matchday 6) Karel Vertongen (Belgium, 17 December) David Findlay (Scotland, 31 December) Bobby Barnes (England, 17 December) Jens Larsen (Denmark, 31 December) 8–18 December, Japan Michael Riley (England, 17 December) Liene Kozlovska (Latvia, 31 December) Club World Cup

UEFA DIRECT • December 2016 – 51 No.163 • December 2016