WE CARE ABOUT FOOTBALL No. 135 | January - February 2014 In this issue

Official publication of the Women’s national team coaches Union of European Football get together 4 Associations The women’s national team coaches and technical directors

of UEFA’s 54 member associations, as well as representatives Images Chief editor: of the other football confederations, met for a conference in Emmanuel Deconche Nyon in December. Getty Produced by: Atema Communication SA, CH-1196 Gland Weeks of Football Printing: 8 Artgraphic Cavin SA, The new Weeks of Football concept will be introduced CH-1422 Grandson for the UEFA EURO 2016 qualifiers. Images Editorial deadline:

5 February 2014 Getty

The views expressed in signed articles are not necessarily the official views of UEFA. First UEFA Executive Committee The reproduction of articles meeting of 2014 9 published in UEFA·direct is authorised, provided the At its meeting at UEFA’s headquarters in Nyon, with the UEFA source is indicated. President in the chair, the Executive Committee decided, among other things, to expand the final round of the European Under-21 Championship to 12 teams, starting with the 2017 tournament. Getty Images

Football, something that everyone can enjoy 13 Within its social responsibility programmes, UEFA, in partnership

Cover: with various organisations, helps disabled people to play football. Curno As the UEFA club In this issue, UEFA•direct presents its partner Special Olympics, Peter competitions enter their which organises sports activities for people with learning disabilities. final stages, Atlético's Adrian Lopez tries to control the ball mid-air during his club’s 2-0 win against FC Porto in the Referee courses in Lisbon 14 UEFA Champions League Before the international football season resumes, on 11 December Europe’s referees attended their annual winter courses, Photo : Getty Images which took place in Lisbon this year. Sportsfile

News from member associations 15

2 | UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 Editorial UEFA

Expanding for the right reasons

UEFA can pride itself on the success both its Herzegovina and the Former Yugoslav Republic national team and club competitions have of Macedonia, who want nothing more than enjoyed for nigh on 60 years. That success is to upset the established order. And we should due in large part to it always keeping a close not belittle the national associations’ efforts to eye on its competitions and making adjust- improve their coaching and facilities so that ments to them when the time is right. The the quality of the game continues to rise at all most recent example concerns the European levels – progress that UEFA strongly supports Under-21 Championship, whose final tourna- through the HatTrick programme and initia- ment is to be expanded from 8 to 12 teams, as tives such as the UEFA Coaching Convention­ decided by the UEFA Executive Committee at and the Study Group Scheme. its meeting in January. The same process of expansion has been applied to the European For all these reasons and more, I am sure Football Championship (for UEFA EURO 2016), that EURO 2016, which is gathering pace the European Women’s Football Champion- following the qualifying draw in Nice, will be a ship (for the Women’s EURO 2017) and some dazzling demonstration of the vitality and of the youth competitions. quality of our national teams.

Any decision to expand a final tournament must always be for sporting reasons above all else. No one would argue that this is the over- riding factor when it comes to expanded under-age tournaments, which require a bigger financial investment by UEFA in order to give more young players the opportunity to experi- Michel Platini ence the final round of a UEFA competition, UEFA President experience which is hugely valuable for their development.

More scepticism may be aroused when it comes to the reasons for expanding the Euro- pean Football Championship final round. How­ever, the strength of our national teams, who regularly shine in the World Cup, should not be overlooked. Nor should the arrival on the scene of new forces, such as Bosnia and

UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 | 3 Women’s football

Women’s national team coaches meet in Nyon

In the annals of UEFA, the organisation of conferences on women’s football can be traced right the way back to 1973. But the UEFA women’s national team coaches conference staged in Nyon from 10 to 12 December was only the second event of its kind. Instead of addressing the female game in general, the conference focused on encouraging the national team coaches and technical directors from all 54 member associations – and from other confederations – to simply “talk football”.

The conference was opened by Karen Espe- The selection of a goalkeeper – Germany’s Nadine lund who, apart from chairing UEFA’s Women’s Angerer – as UEFA’s player of the tournament Football Committee, is a member of the Execu- provided a cue for Noë to flag up the marked tive Committee. “It’s a great opportunity to improvements seen in the art of goalkeeping, learn from each other,” she commented, “as the while Matikainen analysed goalscoring patterns strongest nations are willing to share their expe- and Von Siebenthal presented a more general rience. There is growing strength in women’s review of technical and tactical trends at the football because we are open, we want to share tournament in Sweden. things, and we want to develop.” Their observations provided the foundations The launching pad for the conference was the for discussion groups, in which coaches who had exceptionally successful Women’s EURO 2013 in not been in Sweden were able to cross-reference Sweden, which attracted 133 million television with those who had been. The topics on the viewers and smashed all previous attendance table included: the choice of formations and records. To fuel the subsequent debate, the playing styles, the definition and role of a “play- salient points from UEFA’s technical report on the maker” in the modern game, the importance of final tournament were presented by the obser- possession play, the use of wide areas, the trend vers who had compiled it: Béatrice Von Siebenthal, towards a combination game based on moves Jarmo Matikainen, Anne Noë and Anna Signeul built from the back; and the development of (though the last of those contributors missed the finishing skills – an issue which has gained in event in Nyon, as it clashed with her commit- significance in the wake of a final tournament ments with the Scottish national team in Brazil). which registered a 25% decline in goalscoring Signeul’s presentation, which was delivered by (from 75 to 56 goals) in comparison with the The conference Von Siebenthal, focused on the players named Women’s EURO 2009 in Finland. participants by the UEFA technical observers in their all-star appreciated the presentations as well squad and, more importantly, discussed the Raising the bar as high as possible as the opportunities qualities which had earned them that honour. The champion coach, Germany’s Silvia Neid, for discussion attributed this to the rapid rise in standards in the women’s game. During an on-stage inter- view, on the opening day, she remarked: “There is a clear trend towards better, well-organised defensive play, allied with greater athletic quali- ties and fitness. Not so long ago, you thought you might have to wait 40, 50 or 60 minutes for the opposition to start to flag and give you opportunities to find the holes and make the breakthrough. That’s not the case any more. So, the clear challenge for future development is to train players to be creative and to continually improve their technique.” Neid’s candid interview also highlighted the fact that the rapid growth in spectator interest in the women’s game is bringing it closer to the male equivalent in terms of media exposure, expectations, pressure and a more result-orien- tated approach. “In the German dressing room,” she recalled, “the players felt the pressure and

Getty Images had to cope with media criticism, especially when we didn’t perform well during the group phase and when we lost to Norway. The players matured a lot and learned exactly what can be

4 | UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 required in terms of mental strength if you want also anxious to emphasise the importance of a to achieve your objective.” follow-up at coaching and development levels. This theme was picked up by long-time Eng- “It is about us, as coaches, continually develop- land coach Hope Powell, who was released by ing ourselves,” said Powell. “It's important, as The Football Association following her team’s well, to share best practice and to look at trends group-stage exit in Sweden. Her session on leader­ after major tournaments – this stimulates learn- ship and pressure traced the parallel evolution of ing. But to come together as a group of coaches playing standards and expectations, with Pia and like-minded people, talking about football, Sundhage, coach of the Sweden team which is essential for personal development.” Denmark’s had been hailed as the most exciting attacking coach, Kenneth Heiner-Møller, added: “Everyone force in the final tournament, providing a differ- was able to give input on what we can do better. ent slant on the same theme by outlining her It was all about knowledge-sharing; helping every- pre-tournament efforts aimed at “recruiting a body to improve; and helping to improve the 12th player” for the host team and her insist- game.” l ence in the dressing room that “it is a privilege to play under pressure”. Sundhage com- municated her joyful passion for the game by mixing her words of wisdom with a song or two… The importance of mental aspects was further underscored by Danish author and performance develop- ment expert Rasmus Ankersen, who graphically illustrated, via a series of case histories, the value of positive atti- tudes and a hunger for success – elements which maybe assume even greater rele- vance in the women’s game, where financial incentives generally have a lesser impact on Silvia Neid, coach of success­ful career pathways. the reigning European women’s champions, Career pathways and the Germany, shared her international calendar experience and vision for women’s football The subject of pathways, which was debated at the conference in depth during the conference, highlighted sig- nificant differences between one national asso- ciation and another in terms of helping talented youngsters to successfully bridge the gap between­ Under-19 football and the senior level, bearing in mind the lack of an Under-21 stratum in the women’s game. The international calendar – an “administrative” topic which has considerable significance in the context of long-term coach- ing and development planning – was discussed on the final day. But otherwise, the football talk was all about on-pitch issues, including the benchmarks which had been laid down at the Getty Images Women’s EURO 2013 in terms of fitness andath- leticism. For those who had not been in Sweden, it was fascinating to hear how Professor Peter Krustrup had prepared the Danish squad for their run to the semi-finals, how fitness coach Naomi Datson sets about the same mission in England, and how Italy’s national team coach (and former FIFA World Cup winner) Antonio Cabrini took on the task of upgrading his players’ physical conditioning. The topics discussed during the conference are featured in the technical report that forms the bulk of the tournament review, which can be downloaded from UEFA.com. The marketing aspects of that publication graphically illustrate the growing popularity of women’s football, but the participants at the conference in Nyon were

UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 | 5 Stadium security

UEFA, the Council of Europe and the EU stand together

“Supporters must never be at risk in our stadiums.” That was the message delivered by the UEFA President, Michel Platini, at the start of the last meeting of the UEFA Stadium and Security Committee, held in Nyon on 21 November, issuing a clear message as to what safety and security is all about. Presse Sports

In the stands, safety is the backbone of enjoying football Many critical elements have to come together Council of Europe, the European Union (EU) and at the same time for a football match to come UEFA are working closely together as part of a off successfully, but perhaps the most important three-year safety and security programme that of those is safety. Down on the pitch, players has support at ministerial level. The programme should feel safe as they pass the ball around. includes a wide range of events, workshops and Referees should be able to show red cards with- training programmes, as well as advisory assis- out fear of repercussion. Up in the stands, tance and online materials. It aims to provide the parents want their children to be safe. In buses, European football family and public authorities planes and trains, staff and fans alike want to with a roadmap for the future. soak up the fantastic atmosphere that only foot- ball can create. The fact is, true matchday enjoy- Networking and knowledge sharing ment all boils down to safety and security at Perhaps the most notable preparatory event some level. hosted by UEFA and the EU is the annual Football has certainly had to learn from tragic stadium and security conference held at the experiences, and today the UEFA Champions beginning of the UEFA Champions League and League and the UEFA Europa League are exam- UEFA Europa League season to prepare the ples of the highest level of operational safety participating clubs and their police counterparts and security. However, there can be no room for for what lies ahead. The 2013 event in Warsaw complacency. We must continue to expect the was attended by over 350 delegates, including unexpected and prepare for it. In this light, the representatives of clubs, police authorities, the

6 | UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 pan-European think tank of football safety and tions have requested assistance following the security experts and UEFA’s 54 member associa- UEFA-EU stadium and security conference in tions. The 2014 conference will also focus on the Warsaw. This specific training programme was qualifying matches for UEFA EURO 2016. also used before UEFA EURO 2012, where the The conference takes place over two days and 12,000 or so stewards in Poland and Ukraine is unique in terms of its substance and structure, were commended for their excellent perfor- with interactive workshops and panel sessions mance during the tournament. debating real matchday incidents and best prac- UEFA, the Council of Europe and the pan- tice solutions. This may seem simple, but the European think tank are also conducting indi- reality is that incidents can happen very quickly vidual advisory sessions, which are currently and require an equally fast response. Under- open to UEFA member associations on a case by standing what to do and when can prevent a case basis. The principal aim is to work alongside situation from escalating, or even save a life. national associations and public authorities to However, the confidence to decide on a course tackle specific problem areas and develop gen- of action can only result from open exchanges of eral strategies to improve overall performance information, experience and regular training. and regulations in terms of safety and security. UEFA, the Council of Europe and the pan Euro- This individual approach to problem-solving has pean think tank have relaunched the Stadium and proved highly effective in some countries, with Security Expert Tool (SSET), a knowledge platform external expertise and guidance helping to designed to support stadiums’ safety and security achieve optimum results from both a govern- management for UEFA competitions. The tool mental and a sporting perspective. gives stadium and security stakeholders easy, structured access to expertise, guidance and best practices online. It includes modules covering match operations, venue infrastructure, coordi- nation with partners, communication mecha- nisms and strategies for police. SSET is open to all members of the UEFA football family, such as clubs and national associations, representatives of local authorities, and the police and other emergency services.

Training and development The pan-European police and stadium secu- rity managers programme has provided training to more than 250 police commanders from over 20 countries. This joint UEFA-EU initiative focuses on stadium safety and security management and aims to achieve a consistent approach to the policing of football based on best practices. A new Train the Trainers initiative has also been launched in order to develop stewarding on a national basis. This innovative programme aims to prepare trainers to deliver national train- ing courses to the stewards who are deployed at football matches across the country. The role of

the steward is essential to stadium operations, UEFA ensuring the fans’ safety and well-being at all times. Their work involves checking tickets, The annual stadium and security conference directing fans, enforcing ground regulations, Quite simply, football is loved worldwide. It is is an important event keeping exits clear and being fully conversant the most popular team sport on the planet. for UEFA and the EU with procedures in the event that the stadium However, with that lofty status comes vulnera­ has to be evacuated or supporters need to be bility, placing great responsibility on those who ejected. And of course, a friendly face and a manage the game. This is clearly understood by smile are an absolute must! UEFA, the Council of Europe and the EU, who Ensuring a balanced, national approach to the are working together tirelessly to prevent training and development of stewards, the pro- violence in sport and raise the bar as high as gramme has been rolled out in six UEFA member possible when it comes to safety and security in associations so far, while a further ten associa- stadiums. l

UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 | 7 EURO 2016

WHEN THURSDAY COMES…

National team football will be rejuvenated by the new Week of Football concept, from Thursdays until Tuesdays, which will be introduced for the European Qualifiers for UEFA EURO 2016 and the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

on the same day. Kick-off times will be largely set at 18.00CET and 20.45CET on Saturdays and Sundays and 20.45CET for Thursdays, Fridays, Mondays and Tuesdays. On double-header match­ weeks, teams will play on Thursday and Sunday or Friday and Monday or Saturday and Tuesday. Speaking after the UEFA Executive Committee meeting, the UEFA General Secretary, Gianni Infantino, stated: “As part of UEFA’s drive to improve the quality and appeal of national team football, the Week of Football will see a fresh new approach to international football, starting with the UEFA EURO 2016 qualifiers.” The Week of Football allows fans to watch national team football at the weekend. For EURO 2012 qualifying, only 26 matches (out of 245) took place on Saturdays and Sundays – with the Week of Football at least 33% of matches will take place at weekend.

Getty Images Seven Weeks of Football Italy’s Andrea Pirlo There will be seven Weeks of Football during up against the Czech The EURO 2016 qualifying format and the EURO 2016 qualifying – in September, October Republic’s Libor Kozák qualifying draw procedure were approved at the and November in 2014 and March, June, Sep- in a qualifying match January meeting of the UEFA Executive Commit- tember and October in 2015. for the 2014 World Cup. With the new tee. The 53 countries would be drawn into nine Gianni Infantino added: “Supporters will get Weeks of Football, groups: eight groups of six teams and one group the chance to attend and watch more national supporters will get the of five. The nine group winners, the nine team matches than ever before. Broadcasters chance to attend and runners-up and the best third-placed team will will get more games and more appointments to watch more national team matches than qualify directly for the final round. The eight view. National associations get a consistent ever before. remaining third-placed sides will contest home- schedule and stable revenue. And national team and-away play-off games to decide the remain- football will get greater exposure than before.” ing four teams. Hosts France qualify automati- The new Week of Football and the centralisa- cally and will play friendly matches against teams tion of media rights for European Qualifiers from the five-team qualifying group. All qualify- enhance national team football and boost UEFA’s ing matches will take place in seven Weeks of member associations. The centralisation of media Football. rights will enable national associations to make The Week of Football will see matches take more money from their qualifying games, and place over six days from Thursday to Tuesday. ensure stable revenues from the qualifying Each day of the Week of Football will provide phase, as revenues will be disconnected from 8 to 10 matches as opposed to 20–30 matches draw results. l

FRANCE’S FRIENDLIES Hosts France are, of course, automatic qualifiers for other teams play qualifying games. The main difficulty is EURO 2016. However, they will still get to feel the EURO to find opponents because the international calendar is 2016 buzz early as they will warm up for the event by organised in the same way for everyone all around the playing centralised friendlies. The teams in the five-team world and almost every team in the world, whether it’s group in qualifying – with fewer matches to play and in Europe, Africa or in South America, are playing on the free dates – will play France in friendly matches during same date. The problem for a national association like 2014 and 2015. The president of EURO 2016 SAS, Jacques the French FA is to find some opponents. By pairing them Lambert, summed up the advantages of this new approach right away with a group (of five teams) where there will for host nations: “The advantages are quite simple. In the be a team not playing on every match day, that will allow case of France, you can only play friendly games while the France easily to play friendly games against a team.” l

8 | UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 Executive Committee

House of European Football hosts first meeting of 2014

At its first meeting of the year, in Nyon on 23 and 24 January, the UEFA Executive Committee appointed a legendary coaching figure, Sir Alex Ferguson, as UEFA coaching ambassador.

Sir Alex – who built an outstanding reputation one at UEFA here in Nyon and the one for EURO as a coach over 35 years before retiring last May 2016 SAS in Paris, everyone is working well. – will attend UEFA coach education workshops, “We are now around 20 people in the Paris national team coaches conferences and the office and the staff will now increase on a regu- coach student exchange programme courses. lar basis. You can feel that the workload, the One of his tasks will be to pass on his vast experi- density of the workload, the pressure, is increas- ence to young coaches. ing for everyone, but that’s normal.” “It’s an honour and a privilege to accept this role,” said Sir Alex. “With the experience I’ve 12 teams for the Under-21 final round had over the years, I hope to continue to help Among the other decisions taken in Nyon, the young coaches, in particular, in an industry European Under-21 Championship final tourna- which is becoming more difficult. I look for- ment field will increase from eight to twelve ward to the challenge, I look forward to con- teams (three groups of four) for the 2017 edi- tributing in a big way for UEFA, and I thank tion. This will give more teams and players the [UEFA President] Michel Platini for giving me chance to participate in the final tournament of this opportunity.” the competition, which is of key importance. The Sir Alex’s playing career in his native Scotland qualifying competition should comprise eight took in Queen’s Park FC, Saint Johnstone FC, Dun- groups of six teams and one group of five. fermline Athletic FC, Rangers FC, Falkirk FC and Ayr United FC, and he began his managerial career with East Stirlingshire FC and Saint Mirren FC. Sir Alex went on to guide Aberdeen FC to the 1983 European Cup Winners’ Cup, the 1983 UEFA Super Cup, three Scottish Premier League titles and four Scottish Cups. He led Scotland on a caretaker basis in the 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico after the death of Jock Stein. He joined Manchester United FC in 1986 and his successes included two UEFA Champions League triumphs, a Cup Winners’ Cup, a UEFA Super Cup, 13 Premier League titles, five FA Cups and four English League Cups. Sir Alex has started passing on his wisdom to European coaches, as a guest at the UEFA coach education workshop in Budapest last October. “I’ve always enjoyed working with young people and I can continue to do this in this role,” he said. He urged young coaches to be thorough in their preparations, to give themselves a greater chance of success, and to remember the impor- Getty Images tance of UEFA’s coaching qualifications. Michel Platini and The Executive Committee also approved the UEFA’s new coaching EURO 2016 on track trial use of vanishing spray by referees at May’s ambassador, In addition to the UEFA EURO 2016 matters European Under-17 Championship final round in Sir Alex Ferguson featured on page 8, the UEFA Executive Commit­ Malta. The spray allows the referee to mark the tee approved the composition of the pots and line where the defending team must set up its the procedure for the qualifying draw in Nice on defensive wall before a free-kick is taken. The 23 February. It also heard at its meeting in Nyon line then disappears from the pitch within a that preparations for the final round in France minute. are running smoothly. Finally, the committee approved the budget “Yes we are on time,” said the president of for 2014/15 which will be submitted to the UEFA EURO 2016 SAS, Jacques Lambert, after the Congress for final approval, and gave the green meeting, “which means that the construction/ light to the final programme and agenda for renovation of stadiums is in line with what we the 38th Ordinary UEFA Congress in Astana, expected. Concerning the organising teams, the Kazakhstan, on 27 March. l

UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 | 9 UEFA Youth League

Give youth a chance

Designed as a bridge between the academies and first teams of Europe’s top clubs, the Under-19 tournament’s schedule mirrored that of the UEFA Champions League up until Christmas. Now it is time for the round of 16.

With the likes of Filippo Inzaghi (AC Milan), display – the likes of Raúl González, Wayne Rooney Patrick Vieira (Manchester City FC) and Nicky Butt and Andriy Shevchenko – and the UEFA Youth (Manchester United FC) in charge of UEFA Youth League gives young talents a new international League sides, there has been no shortage of illus- platform on which to make strides towards the trious names involved. However, it is the develop- highest level of club football. ment of the participating youngsters that is para- “It is an important step towards professional mount. “I’m sure that, in the future, this year will football,” said former Spain striker Fernando Morientes, now part of the Real Madrid CF youth set-up. “It is very good that they get used to things that professional football will ask of them.” Paris Saint-Germain boss, Laurent Blanc, mean- while, thinks the competition will offer players an education as well as an opportunity. “It is a way to face a different culture and I think they will benefit from that,” he said. With nine places in the last 16 up for grabs going into matchday six, drama has hardly been in short supply either – and there is plenty more to come. l

Road to the final • The UEFA Youth League group stage saw the Under-19 teams of the 32 UEFA Champions League participants meet in an autumn programme that mirrored the senior sides' campaigns. Getty Images • The top two from each group went into the Sinan Bytyqi, round of 16 draw in December, with the celebrating with be remembered as the start of something great – route all the way to the final also mapped out Manchester City I’m absolutely convinced of that,” said Arsenal FC’s during that draw. captain Marcos senior-team manager, Arsène Wenger. Lopes, will go • While country protection was in place for It all began on 17 September, with Manchester down in history as the last 16, the path through the rest of the Youth League’s City forward Sinan Bytyqi scoring the competition’s the competition was paved with open draws. first scorer first goal ten minutes into matchday one. “I'm very happy, very proud – it's always good to write some Round of 16: one-off ties, history for the team as well,” he said. That marked 18/19/25/26 February the opening of a successful group stage campaign FC Barcelona v FC København for City, but it was another English side, Chelsea FC, PFC CSKA Moskva v Paris Saint-Germain who caught the eye as the only club to win all six Club Atlético de Madrid v Manchester City FC of their fixtures. Chelsea FC v AC Milan Three youngsters have already proven the solid Real Madrid CF v SSC Napoli grounding that this tournament can provide. SL Benfica v FK Austria Wien Vyacheslav Karavaev (PFC CSKA Moskva), Serge Arsenal FC v FC Shakhtar Donetsk Gnabry (Arsenal) and Adama Traoré (FC Barcelona) Real Sociedad de Fútbol v FC Schalke 04 have all featured in this term’s UEFA Youth League before making an appearance for their respective • The quarter-finals will also be one-off ties, senior teams in the UEFA Champions League. played on 11/12/18/19 March. • The semi-final games (11 April) and the final Following in the footsteps of Raúl, (14 April) are to be played as part of a four- Rooney or Shevchenko team tournament at the Colovray Stadium Indeed, Europe’s premier club competition is full opposite UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Swit­ of memorable stories of teenagers thrusting them- zerland. l selves into the global consciousness with a dazzling

10 | UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 Internet

UEFA.org, the new UEFA institutional website

Following the separation of UEFA.org from UEFA.com in October 2013, UEFA’s institutional website received the second part of a three-stage upgrade in time for the resumption of the 2013/14 club competition season.

The site, which is focused exclusively on com- municating the activities of European football’s governing body, now features more information about the workings of the organisation, with a revised homepage that includes more entry points to key topics direct from the index page, and a new media releases service delivering tar- geted content in seven European languages. “Our first intention was to manage messag- ing of competition and corporate content in separate ways,” said UEFA’s head of communi- cations, David Farrelly. “The messaging is differ- ent – and so is the audience. We felt that one solution failed to match UEFA’s communication needs. UEFA.com is effective in reporting UEFA’s competitions and the routes to qualifying for UEFA’s competitions, but it was felt that corpo- rate content ran the risk of getting quickly lost, especially once matches were being played. By making these changes, the fans are given direct access to the competitions via a dedicated ser- vice, UEFA.com, while media and other stake- holders receive their messaging on UEFA.org, a platform equally dedicated to their needs, con- stantly up to date, and with easy access to key topics. We believe that UEFA.com will remain the effective communications channel for our competitions, while UEFA.org provides the neces­ sary space for other stakeholders to know what is happening at UEFA, as well as to better under- stand our initiatives and our policies.”

Audience habits switch to social media channels Structural changes have also been made to the relaunched UEFA.org, including the full inte- gration of UEFA member associations and their activities in a dedicated section, and the addition of club financial controlling matters in the disci- plinary section in advance of the decisions that will be made by the Club Financial Control Board in the coming months. UEFA.org will receive its own dedicated social media service on Twitter, while there will also be increased blogging opportunities for UEFA’s media and public relations unit to deliver and maintain ing or disseminating information, had caused an up-to-the-minute news service, particularly in their switch towards social media channels, so relation to disciplinary decisions and marketing we will also be present and active there, to pro- matters. vide more efficient and effective messaging on “As a service, UEFA.org will now use more various decisions made and topics affecting blogging and newsletter tools to target direct European football’s governing body. A new messages to our audience, but we needed to go Twitter news feed will help us to deliver this as further than that,” added Farrelly. “Our consulta- we move forward.” tion process included various stakeholders, both Further changes to UEFA.org are expected to inside and outside of the organisation. It was be made in time for the start of the 2014/15 clear that their habits, either in terms of receiv- season. l

UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 | 11 Competitions

the final round has been contested by 16 teams. A new trophy for Bayern The 16-team format was last used between 1985 and 2002, with eight team tournaments being staged in the intervening period.

Greece to host Under-19 final round in summer 2015 In contrast, the European Under-19

Images Championship will be unchanged in 2014/15. The 52 teams competing in Getty

/ the qualifying round have been divided into 13 groups, with the top two in each

Bongarts group, plus the best third-place team, joining Spain – who have a bye at this stage – playing the elite On 21 December FC Bayern München rounded off an exceptional round to determine the seven teams that will join year by winning the FIFA Club World Cup in Morocco, beating hosts Greece (who qualify automatically) at the Moroccan team Raja Casablanca 2-0 in the final. In so doing, they final tournament. added yet another trophy to their list of international honours for Group 1: Belgium, England, Luxembourg, Belarus 2013, having already won the UEFA Champions League in May and Group 2: Austria, Germany, Latvia, Kazakhstan the UEFA Super Cup in August. l Group 3: Turkey, Croatia, Iceland, Estonia Group 4: Slovakia, Hungary, Armenia, Azerbaijan Group 5: Russia, Czech Republic, Faroe Islands, Changes at Under-17 level Northern Ireland for 2014/15 Group 6: Republic of Ireland, Switzerland, Malta, Gibraltar Although the current European Under- Group 7: Denmark, Portugal, Albania, Wales 17 Championship is not yet over, prepa- Group 8: Ukraine, Israel, Sweden, Bulgaria rations are already under way for next Group 9: Italy, Serbia, Slovenia, San Marino season’s competition. Group 10: Netherlands, Poland, Andorra, Moldova The draw for the 2014/15 champion- Group 11: Romania, Georgia, Cyprus, ship was made at the end of last year, with the 52 Montenegro teams that will contest the qualifying round being Group 12: Bosnia and Herzegovina, France, placed in the following groups: Liechtenstein, Former Yugoslav Group 1: Scotland, Republic of Ireland, Republic of Macedonia Faroe Islands, Gibraltar Group 13: Norway, Scotland, Lithuania, Finland Group 2: Poland, Georgia, Estonia, Liechtenstein (The countries in bold will host the mini tournaments.) Group 3: Iceland, Italy, Moldova, Armenia Group 4: England, France, Cyprus, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia Ninth UEFA Regions’ Cup Group 5: Ukraine, Sweden, Greece, Latvia kicks off Group 6: Turkey, Portugal, Slovenia, Northern Ireland At the end of last year, the 38 national Group 7: Croatia, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Israel associations that have entered the Group 8: Serbia, Netherlands, Malta, Finland 2014/15 UEFA Regions’ Cup had their Group 9: Austria, Norway, San Marino, Albania first taste of the competition at the draw Group 10: Belgium, Switzerland, Azerbaijan, for the preliminary and intermediate Bosnia and Herzegovina rounds. In the preliminary round, which comprises Group 11: Slovakia, Spain, Luxembourg, two groups of four countries, Estonia will play host Lithuania to Wales, Kazakhstan and Sweden, while Slovenia Group 12: Czech Republic, Denmark, Romania, will welcome Greece, San Marino and Scotland. Andorra The winners of those two groups will join the 30 Group 13: Russia, Belarus, Wales, Montenegro other teams in the intermediate round. The teams (The countries in bold will host the mini tournaments.) representing the various national associations will not be known until the summer. All matches in the The top two in each group, plus the five best preliminary round must be played by 31 July, and third-place teams, will join Germany – who have a matches in the intermediate round must be com- bye at this stage of the competition – in the elite pleted by 15 December. The winners of each group round. There, they will attempt to secure one of the in the intermediate round will qualify for the final 15 remaining places at the final tournament tournament, which is scheduled to take place in (Bulgaria having already qualified automatically as June 2015 and will be held in the country of one of hosts). This will be the first time in a long while that the finalists. l

12 | UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 Following theNationalSummerGames,which means self-confidence.” improve skills.Iswimandcycleaswell.Fitness opportunities forregulartrainingsessionsto I alsomaintainadecentfitnesslevel,andget and youmeetpeoplemakealotoffriends. ward totheteamspiritandcamaraderie, David’s involvementwithhisclub.“Ilookfor- able toengagewitheverybody.” my life.I’velearnedahugeamountaboutbeing to playfootball,whichI’velovedwatchallof have alife-changingexperience.I’vebeenable ference,” Plymouth &Districtclub.“It’s madeagreatdif- Games. Special OlympicsGreat BritainNationalSummer South West teamthattookpartinlastsummer’s particular, Davidrelished hisparticipationinthe personal stridesthrough SpecialOlympics.In England, isafootballerwhohasmadeimportant disabilities infootball. primarily toinvolvemore playerswithintellectual Olympics andUEFA beganin1998andaims 170 countries.ThepartnershipbetweenSpecial lion athleteswithintellectualdisabilitiesinover opportunities inavarietyofsportsto4.2mil- and friendship. ness, demonstratecourageandshare gifts,skills – giving them the chance to develop physical fit- people withintellectualdisabilitiesthrough sport changes livesbyencouragingandempowering across theworldbyUEFA’s core SpecialOlympics. socialresponsibilitypartner Football’s powerto promote joyandinclusionisreflectedbythesterlingworkundertaken THE POWERTO CHANGELIVES Social responsibility Pride andpleasure exclusion –itbringstogetherness andnotisolation. to haveahealthydiet.Sport bringsinclusionandnot It’s goingtomotivateyougetfit, exercise and to increaseyourself-confidence andyourself-reliance. The benefitsaremassive.Anysportingactivityisgoing for peoplewithintellectualdisabilities? Dr Shepherd, whatare thebenefitsofpractisingsport Olympics GreatBritain. Dr StanShepherdisthemedicaldirector forSpecial Dr S There isalsoafeelingofprideandpleasure. Friendship andfitnessare keyaspectsof David isamemberoftheSpecialOlympics David Bowyer, from Plymouthinsouthwest Special Olympics,foundedin1968,provides bodythat Special Olympicsisaninternational hepherd: “Thebenefitsaremassive” he said.“I’vehadanopportunityto development –andareal senseofachievement. given themtheopportunityforpositivepersonal gratefultoSpecialOlympicsforhaving eternally thousands ofothersportsmenandwomenare be ofbenefit,andthisismyaim.”David some oftheenjoymentthatI’vehad,thishasto get intocoaching,”hesaid.“IfIcanputback the gameinfuture. “Ideally, Iwouldliketo football has motivated David to stay involvedin reflected. resent Plymouth,ourclubandourselves,”David experience. “We wereimmenselyproudtorep- as wellacivicreception –anunforgettable of anopen-topbusridethoughPlymouth, David andhiscolleaguesreceived theaccolade Scotland andWales, disabilities, allwithlearning involved 1,700 athletesfrom across England, www.specialolympics.org. For more information,goto The experienceofplayingSpecialOlympics and ourselves.” to representPlymouth,ourclub “We wereimmenselyproud winning andlosingtogether. athletes sharetheexperience oftraining,playing, and isolated.Becausefootball isateamgame,the intellectual disabilitiescanmake yourlifelonely challenges andjoyasanyoneelse.Having football, theyexperiencethesameexcitement, emotions aseveryoneelse.Sowhentheyplay with intellectualdisabilitieshaspreciselythesame The firstthingtorememberisthatsomeone What doesfootballinparticularbringtotheathlete? DavidBowyer l

l UEFA • Summer Games Great BritainNational Special Olympics celebrates atthe Bowyer (left) is universal–David The joyofagoal | direct |01-02.14

Peter Curno 13 Referees

Winter courses held in Lisbon

Each year, UEFA invites Europe’s top men and women referees, plus men and women referees who are newcomers to the FIFA international list, to winter courses which serve to prepare the match officials for their assignments in the second half of the season. Lisbon was the venue for this year’s gathering from 2 to 6 February.

UEFA takes great care in fostering its match fitness levels and exemplary conduct at all times. officials. The Referees Committee comprises The importance of preparation was emphasised, former international referees who have taken as well as the need to know one’s strengths and charge of major world and European matches, weaknesses, and a capacity to learn from mis- and who give the current referees invaluable takes. guidance in their challenging role in the modern- “Welcome to you,” said UEFA’s chief referee- day game. ing officer, Pierluigi Collina. “It is a big achieve- European football’s governing body organises ment for you and congratulations – but consider two main referee events a year. The summer this just as a first step.” The new internationals meeting sees match officials primed for the went through an extensive medical check-up coming season, and a winter gathering prepares and took the FIFA fitness test, while their English them for upcoming appointments in the spring. knowledge was also tested. Visual tests were Female referees joined the UEFA sessions for the held to make sure the referees’ eyesight was in first time last year, highlighting the growing proper order. importance of women’s football. Ahead of coming assignments in the UEFA The new FIFA referees were instructed on Champions League and UEFA Europa League, what UEFA expected of them – clear and consist- the advanced referees underwent an injury pre- ent decision-making, the ability to handle pres- vention screening and fitness check. “We are sure and manage crisis moments, appropriate facing the most important part of the season with the knockout phase,” Pierluigi Collina told them. “Every match is crucial. It’s important what you will Europe's referees for do, so be ready.” A group of top the FIFA World Cup in Brazil European referees are now also in full preparation for this summer’s FIFA World Cup in Brazil. The referees were urged to protect the image of football and the well- being of players in the face of serious foul play which could endanger ano­ther player’s safety. In addition, the Referees Committee called for firm action against the mobbing of a referee by several players at once. A match-fixing presentation was on the Lisbon agenda, urging the referees to make a full contribution to fighting this phenomenon and to adopt the “Three Rs’ principle” – Recognise an approach, Reject the approach and Report the approach. The Lisbon week gave the referees a chance to exchange ideas – and to continue learning, whatever their experience. “Refereeing is a continu- ous learning process,” said Portugal’s Sportsfile Pedro Proença, referee of the 2012 Front row (from left): Milorad Mažić (Serbia), Cüneyt Çakır (Turkey), UEFA Champions League final and Felix Brych (Germany), Björn Kuipers (Netherlands). UEFA EURO 2012 final. “Until the Middle row: Nicola Rizzoli (Italy), Pedro Proença (Portugal). end of our refereeing careers, we Back row: Svein Moen (Norway) – the European support referee, Howard must remain aware that we don’t Webb (England), Jonas Eriksson (Sweden), Carlos Velasco Carballo (Spain). know everything, that we are always learning…” l

14 | UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 member associations

Albania www.fshf.org

Albanian football rebranded background (the colour of the Albanian flag), management experts, footballers, former is a stylised double-headed eagle (Albania’s players and media professionals. At its end-of-year gala dinner, attended national symbol) and a football in The results of this research were used by many members of the Albanian football motion. Above it are the associa- to guide the creative process, from family, the Football Association of Albania tion’s initials (which stand for choosing the right elements to make up (FSHF) presented its new logo, which forms Federata Shqiptare e Futbollit) the logo to the final creative proposals. part of its rebranding process. The logo and the year when the FSHF was From a wider perspective, the aim of marks a departure from the symbols founded – 1930. the rebranding process is to create an historically used by the association, but it The creation of this logo is the umbrella brand and to give the FSHF its remains based on traditional elements of fruit of a project conducted by the own institutional logo, different from Albanian heraldry. FSHF in cooperation with UEFA. that used by the national teams, which will The new logo is in the shape of a shield, Before the creative work began, the FSHF continue to use the old logo based on the the first time that this important element of conducted a lot of research and consulted all Albanian flag. Albanian heraldry has been used to represent stakeholders, including fans, sponsors, The next step of the process will be to create the FSHF. Inside the shield, against a red the government, national and international separate brands for all major competitions organised by the FSHF, such as the Albanian Super League and the Albanian Cup. The rebranding process is also part of a Andorra longer-term strategy in response to the www.faf.ad changing face of the Albanian market. With this professional approach, the FSHF aims to meet the needs of both the national Charity futsal match and international markets. l Gazmend Malo As part of its cooperation with non-profit- making entities, the Andorran Football Federation (FAF) hosted a charity event on Belarus 17 December in support of the organisation www.bff.by Téléthon. Around 90 spectators crowded FAF into the sports hall of the Centre Esportiu New BFF logo Pas de la Casa to watch a friendly match A friendly match to raise money for the Andorran Téléthon between the national Under-21 futsal team The Football Federation of Belarus (BFF) and the Pas de la Casa futsal team (who play has recently changed its official logo, with course for youth-level football coaches. in the first division of the Andorran futsal the new version having been chosen and It was a real success, with great feedback league). The funds raised by the event will approved by the association’s executive from all participants. The FAF and the be used for research into therapies and cures committee. technical coaches committee devised the for rare diseases that affect around 30 million The agency responsible for course as part of the association’s new people across Europe, which is the main designing the new emblem technology development programme, and goal of that marvellous organisation. initially came up with three they both agree that it has been a very In other news, 19 people recently themes: the European bison positive experience and a great success. completed the country’s first ever online (one of the country’s national l Sílvia Casals symbols), the fern flower (the national flower) and a traditional ornamental pattern (which is used Azerbaijan in the national flag). The designers came up www.affa.az with three concepts for each theme and produced ten variants. Numerous fans and Andy Cole visits Baku Manchester United FC star met children football experts were consulted, and the participating in the Football with Bakcell process took some time, but eventually a Andy Cole visited Baku in December as a project, which is run jointly by Bakcell and winner was chosen. That design was then special guest of the company Bakcell in order the Association of Football Federations of refined further, ultimately becoming a logo to participate in the annual BakuTel exhibi- Azerbaijan (AFFA), holding a training session featuring the European bison (which is found tion. While he was there, the former for a group of teenagers at the Bakcell only in Belarus and Poland) and a football. Arena. Azerbaijani internationals Kamran The rebranding process has already begun Aghayev and Mahir Shukurov also partici- and will probably take a few weeks to pated in the event, which was followed by a complete. By the start of the new season, press conference, at which Andy Cole said: though, the new logo will be used every- “I am very pleased to be here. I am proud to where, from the BFF’s offices to its official be associated with this project. As you know, website (which is currently also being football is a sport for everyone – both for redesigned). When the new logo was adults and kids. And I’m glad to be part of unveiled in December at the awards ceremony this event. I know that the Bakcell Arena is a for the 2013 season, the president of the BFF, new stadium and I’m sure the kids will be Sergei Roumas, said that it had been time able to play football in this new stadium all for the association to come up with a new year round and that the doors of this venue emblem, which would perhaps mark the start AFFA will always be open to all football fans.” of a new chapter for Belarusian football. Andy Cole makes the day of some happy youngsters l Ulviyya Najafova l Alexander Aleinik

UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 | 15 Member associations F. Krvavac F.

Bosnia and Herzegovina www.nfsbih.ba

On the road to Brazil most-capped player Zvjezdan Misimović, many former internationals and former Zvjezdan Misimović, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sports The Bosnia and Herzegovina Football national team coaches. personality of 2013 Federation (NFSBiH) recently organised an Another event was recently held in satisfaction and happiness, but also a desire event at the Skenderija youth centre in Sarajevo to celebrate and honour the to repay this faith in the future,” Misimović Sarajevo under the heading of The Road to country’s finest sportsmen and women – the said. The award for coach of the year went Brazil. The event was attended by numerous 13th time that this annual awards ceremony to Safet Sušić, while his national team were stars of Bosnian football and other sports, as had been staged. The jury elected to give the crowned team of the year. well as politicians and public figures. award for the best sportsman of 2013 to The draw for the group stage of the 2014 The NFSBiH’s leaders took this opportunity Zvjezdan Misimović, who holds the record FIFA World Cup in Brazil was conducted in to express their gratitude to their partners and for the most appearances for the country’s Costa do Sauipe, in the state of Bahia, in sponsors for their support and confidence in national team. This was a real honour, early December. Bosnia and Herzegovina the national team while they were competing as the award is rarely won by a footballer. were drawn into Group F, alongside for a place at the World Cup in Brazil. Misimović is certainly a deserving recipient of Argentina, Nigeria and Iran. Their first match Addressing the guests, the president of the the award for 2013, as he helped the national will be against Argentina at the Maracana NFSBiH, Elvedin Begić, thanked everyone for team to achieve the long-awaited dream of Stadium in Rio de Janeiro on 16 June, and their cooperation during the past year. qualifying for a major tournament. He has they will then play Nigeria in Cuiaba on “This year will remain inscribed in golden played for his country 79 times and has scored 21 June and Iran in El Salvador on 25 June. letters in the history of Bosnian football. 26 goals in the process, making him Bosnia’s Meanwhile, a UEFA representative recently I hope that the national team and the second highest goalscorer of all time, just visited the NFSBiH to review the current and NFSBiH will continue to be successful in behind Edin Džeko. Misimović has spent a full future infrastructure projects to which UEFA 2014, especially at the forthcoming FIFA ten years on the national team, having made his is contributing funds. The UEFA official held World Cup in Brazil,” he said. debut on 15 February 2004 against the Former a series of meetings with representatives of In addition to the whole of the NFSBiH’s Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia in Skopje. the NFSBiH, as well as accompanying the executive board, the event was also attended “One of the greatest honours for any general secretary of the NFSBiH, Jasmin by Ivica Osim, Duško Bajević, Faruk sportsperson is when he is declared the best Baković, and members of his team on a visit Hadžibegić, Sead Kajtaz, national team of all the athletes in the country. I feel to the new NFSBiH training centre in Zenica. coach Safet Sušić, team captain Emir Spahić, great honour, recognition, a sense of pride, l Fuad Krvavac

Bulgaria Croatia www.bfunion.bg www.hns-cff.hr

Pure joy of football New technical director and Under-19 head coach More than 200 children (all born in 2004) Stipe Pletikosa, took part in the traditional Football 7 The cities of Umag and Rovinj were the the Croatia tournament organised by the Bulgarian venues for the boys’ and girls’ winter camps supporters’ player of the year for 2013 Football Union (BFU) at DIT Sport in organised by the Croatian Football Federa-

Dragalevtsi to celebrate the end of the year. tion (HNS) in January. While the winter camp HNS The competition attracted considerable is traditionally one of the most important public attention, and for the first time games selection sessions for Under-14 to Under- national teams’ technical staff to listen to at the ultramodern venue were televised. 16 boys, this was the first time that a camp presentations by experts and share their A total of 16 teams, divided into four had been organised for girls. Marija opinions and experiences. groups, competed for the BFU’s Christmas Margareta Damjanović, head coach of the The HNS also recently unveiled the new Cup. Two teams from Sofia – Levski and national women’s team and women’s head coach of the national Under-19 team, Slavia – contested the final, with Slavia football coordinator at the HNS, was very with Zoran Vulić taking charge of this talented winning 4-2 on penalties after a goalless pleased with the result: “The conditions side: “It is an honour to be named head draw. Borislav Mihaylov, president of the were excellent and our camp was a big coach of a Croatian national team. This was BFU, addressed the young footballers during success. We are proud to have organised the one of my dreams as a coach. I believe in this the awards ceremony: “I would like to first girls’ camp, during which we had several generation; they have a bright future.” congratulate all of the young players who meetings with people who are important One of the role models for those players have been involved in this tournament. At for the development of Croatian football could be Mario Mandžukić, who was recently this age, the joy of playing football for fun is – including women’s football.” named sportsman of the year by Croatian more important than any result. The BFU has The person responsible for the development sports daily Sportske novosti. In December never been more determined to preserve the of football in Croatia is the HNS’s new technical Mandžukić won the FIFA Club World Cup future of the game, which lies in those pure director, Romeo Jozak, who was appointed in with FC Bayern München, adding to his hearts of yours.” December. Jozak spent many years running collection of trophies from 2013, which l Pavel Kolev GNK Dinamo Zagreb’s youth academy, which already included the UEFA Champions developed players such as Luka Modrić, Vedran League, the UEFA Super Cup, the German Ćorluka and Mateo Kovačić, who are now Bundesliga and the DFB Cup. key players in the national team. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Stipe Pletikosa has “I am looking forward to this new been named player of the year by the challenge in my career. I am proud to have Croatian national team supporters’ group. an opportunity to help develop Croatian ACF Fiorentina’s Ante Rebić was named most football at all levels,” Jozak said. promising player of the year, while star coach The winter camp was also a good Miroslav “Ćiro” Blažević, who guided Croatia opportunity for a coaching seminar, with to third place at the 1998 FIFA World Cup, 30 youth team coaches from first and second was given a lifetime achievement award. BFU division clubs joining members of the l Tomislav Pacak More than 200 youngsters took part in the seven-a-side tournament

16 | UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 Czech Republic www.fotbal.cz

Youth football seminar Coerver coaching programme, who gave a presentation and ran a 90-minute practical On 21 and 22 November, the Olympic session for coaches. sports centre in Nymburk hosted the The seminar was organised by Dušan fourth major seminar run by the Czech Fitzel, technical director of the FAČR, Otakar Republic’s elite youth sports centre. More Mestek, director of the grassroots depart- than 170 coaches, sports managers and ment, Antonín Plachý, head of the coach members of top youth clubs gathered in the education department, Stanislav Rýznar, conference hall. They received a wealth of licence manager for professional football,

information: details of financing provided and Michal Blažej, grassroots manager. Many FACR by the ministry of youth and the Football distinguished guests also attended, such as Association of the Czech Republic (FAČR), Roman Berbr, vice-chairman of the FAČR, information on changes to rules governing Josef Táncoš, a member of the FAČR’s The seminars run by the elite youth sports centre are a youth competitions, lectures on youth executive committee, Josef Dobeš, a former good opportunity for discussion and sharing information development trends and the physical testing minister for education and sport, Zdeněk of youth players in the national Under-16 to Psotka, chairman of the youth committee, agreed on this point – that the FAČR is Under-19 teams, information about the UEFA and Václav Černý, Aleš Čvančara and working closely with coaches, looking at Youth League from coaches at FC Viktoria Miroslav Soukup, the coaches of the national training methods and the latest coaching Plzeň, and much more besides. Under-16, Under-17 and Under-18 teams. trends. We know, though, that all of us must The FAČR also invited two special guests: The main focus of this seminar was continue learning and improving, taking UEFA technical director, Marc Van Geersom, discussion groups looking at youth competi- inspiration from many different sources. That who talked about the development of tions and developments in coaching methods is the only way to get our players to the very football in Belgium over the last ten years; between Under 12 and Under-19 level. These pinnacle of European football. and Alfred Galustian, co-founder of the discussions showed – and Marc Van Geersom l Michal Blažej

Estonia www.jalgpall.ee

Refereeing standards on the rise now has two FIFA-level women In other news, Estonia’s first assistant referees, and it is permanent full-size indoor This year the Estonian Football Asso- ­­ looking forward to making it sports hall was completed ciation (EJL) has strengthened its referee a hat-trick next year. at the end of last year. Many development team, hiring an experienced Hannes Kaasik started training sessions and matches FIFA referee, Hannes Kaasik, as a referee refereeing in 2000 and has held have already taken place development officer. a FIFA badge since 2006. He there during the harsh winter Kaasik is responsible for training new has refereed various European months, delighting coaches referees and improving the quality of existing Football Championship and FIFA and players alike. In order to officials. Refereeing is becoming more World Cup qualifying matches, make maximum use of the popular in Estonia, with increasing numbers as well as group matches in the hall, the EJL has launched a of courses being organised across the UEFA Europa League. One of EJL pre-season tournament for country with the help of regional referee Kaasik’s most important tasks is Hannes Kaasik local clubs, with 12 games coordinators. Significant progress has been to organise sessions for clubs being played every weekend. made on the women’s side, with two and players, to give them a better under- The hall has also been used for coaching women-only courses helping to boost the standing of the Laws of the Game and the courses. number of active women referees. Estonia principles of refereeing. l Press office

France www.fff.fr

Blue Horizon 2016: The FFF has identified four priorities in follow-up measures having been put in a new direction for the FFF its quest to breathe new life into French place, the FFF is well on the road to its Blue football by 2016: member satisfaction; Horizon 2016. In less than three years’ time, France will supporting talented players on their journey l Philippe Mayen host UEFA EURO 2016, an international to the top; the efficiency of French football; event that has given rise to a dual objective and sustainable financial resources. Blue on the part of the French Football Federation Horizon 2016 will be a huge challenge for (FFF): not only to turn this major tournament the FFF, and is primarily a response to the into a real festival of sport and a public first priority: the FFF’s desire to serve its celebration, but also to change the face of members better in the future. French football. In response to that objective, With the project having already the FFF has devised a project with the apt drummed up wide support and enthusi- name of Blue Horizon 2016 – aimed at its asm, concrete aims and objectives having members and French football as a whole. been defined, and an action plan and

UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 | 17 Member associations

Georgia Hungary www.gff.ge www.mlsz.hu

GFF Awards 2013 Attila Pintér appointed

GFF head coach On 26 December the Georgian Football Federation (GFF) conducted its traditional Guram Kashia, best player of 2013 Hungary have appointed Attila Pintér, a round-up of the past year’s activities at the GFF former international and a member of the Awards 2013 gala event, which was attended of the year, while Giorgi Papava and Giorgi team that won the European Under-18 by members of the national coaching Chanturia took second and third place Championship, as their new head coach. committee, football club bosses, former players, respectively. Pintér, who replaces Sándor Egervári, is current Georgian internationals, representatives The award for the best player in the looking forward to leading Hungary in their of the media and other honoured guests. Georgian league went to Giorgi Loria, with EURO 2016 qualifying campaign. The best players of the year and those who Elguja Grigalashvili coming second and “We had several options for the position, had made a significant contribution to the Cisko coming third. but we believe that a Hungarian coach could development of football in Georgia made Guram Kashia, the captain of Dutch side be more effective than a foreigner at the speeches and received various awards. Vitesse, received the award for the best moment,” said Sándor Csányi, president of The GFF asked players and coaches to overseas player for the second time, while the Hungarian Football Federation (MLSZ). nominate people who they thought should Jaba Kankava and Vako Kazaishvili came “In our opinion, he has the potential to receive awards, with the head coaches of second and third respectively. create a competitive team for the qualifiers the national teams and the coaches and The GFF’s special prize for the best team and lead Hungary to UEFA EURO 2016. captains of the clubs in Georgia’s top two was awarded to the national Under-19 team There are several reasons why we chose him. divisions all playing an active role. (now the Under-20 team), coached by Giorgi First, he is an ambitious coach who always Nominations were made for the following Tsetsadze, which participated in the final wants to win. And second, he is the most four awards: round of the European Under-19 Champion- tactically astute Hungarian coach.” - best Under-21 player; ship in July last year. - best player in the national league; The highlight of the event was the award for - best Georgian overseas player; the best Georgian player of 2013. That went - best footballer of 2013. to Guram Kashia, with Giorgi Loria and Jaba While the jury came to a final decision Kankava in second and third place respectively. regarding the recipients of those awards, So, Georgian international Guram Kashia was the president and general secretary summed the evening’s clear winner, receiving that award up the federation’s activities over the past for the second year in a row. year, which had been a busy and challenging “I am so happy and excited … I did not period. The GFF hosted a number of expect this to happen again. I would like MLSZ high-level tournaments in 2013, a total of to extend my deep gratitude to the GFF’s Attila Pintér 60 training camps were organised for the management and those professionals, national teams and various youth teams, coaches and captains who think that At the beginning of his career (at the and the national teams played 91 friendly I deserve the award in question. I feel age of 18), Pintér played for the Hungarian matches and 36 competitive matches. uncomfortable receiving an award like this. team which won the European Under-18 As far as awards were concerned, Vako Thank you so much!” Kashia said. Championship in 1984 in the Soviet Union. Kazaishvili was voted the best young player l Press centre He was capped 20 times by Hungary, won the Hungarian Cup with Ferencvárosi TC, and also spent a brief period playing for K. Beerschot AC in Belgium. Germany As a coach, the 47-year-old won the www.dfb.de Hungarian championship with Ferencváros in 2004 and the Hungarian Cup with Boateng project nominated FC Sopron in 2005, before taking over at for integration prize Győri ETO FC. In two spells at Győr, he guided them to two third-place finishes, before German international Jérôme Boateng is winning the league with them last season. patron of the Midnight Sports Club in Berlin, DFB “This is a great success for the whole of one of the nominees for the integration prize Jérôme Boateng, Oliver Bierhoff and Miroslav Klose the Hungarian coaching community. I’m very awarded by the German Football Association with two amateur players proud to be the coach of the Hungarian (DFB) in partnership with Mercedes-Benz. national team. I have presented my plans A jury comprising people such as Wolfgang Vito, while the runners-up will receive for the clubs, and I would like to cooperate Niersbach and Oliver Bierhoff has selected cheques for €10,000 and €5,000. “Football with them, because my aim is to create an a total of nine nominees in the categories is a great driver of integration. After all, the effective and successful Hungarian team “club”, “independent or community project” local football club is the place where people which is able to qualify for an international and “school”, as well as choosing the recipient meet. Football clubs do an enormous amount tournament.” of a special award. The winners will be to support interaction and cooperation, The coach has already started work, announced at a gala evening at the Mercedes- including breaking down language and summoning the first team squad to Telki Benz Museum in Stuttgart on 4 March, the cultural barriers,” said the president of the – the MLSZ’s technical centre – once a week night before the German national team’s DFB, Wolfgang Niersbach. “We have been in order to improve the cohesion of the match against FIFA World Cup participants presenting this annual integration prize in team. Pintér has also said that both home Chile. The special award will go to German partnership with Mercedes-Benz since 2007, and foreign based players are eligible for Bundesliga club 1. FSV Mainz 05 for its and we are delighted with the response it has selection, as players will be chosen solely exceptional work in the area of integration. had and with the quality of the applications.” on the basis of performance. The winners will be given a Mercedes-Benz l Thomas Hackbarth l Márton Dinnyés

18 | UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 Israel www.football.org.il

Fans of Hapoel Haifa FC by Kick It Out Israel volunteers, who visit the receive award stadiums on a weekly basis. The winning team’s fans receive prize The Israel Football Association (IFA) has given money from the IFA to spend on equipment. its award for the best behaved fans during the The fans of Hapoel Haifa FC were given their first half of the 2013/14 Israeli Premier League award before the recent home match against season to the supporters of Hapoel Haifa FC. Beitar Jerusalem FC.

The IFA is working with Kick It Out Israel The IFA’s goal is to create a great environ- IFA to create a better environment for football ment in the stadiums, ensuring that football Nir Yankelevitch, head of professional leagues and stamp out all violence in stadiums. The is enjoyable for all. division in the Israel FA, with representatives of Kick award is presented following an assessment l Michal Grundland it Out and Hapoel Haifa FC

Liechtenstein www.lfv.li

Eschen/Mauren celebrate their 50th birthday On 29 November 2013, celebrations were held to mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Liechtensteiner football club FC USV Eschen/Mauren, with numerous guests from home and abroad being invited Matthias Voigt, president to join in the festivities. of the Liechtenstein FA, with Liechtenstein is home to just seven football guests at the FC USV Eschen/ clubs. Four of those – FC Vaduz, FC Balzers, Mauren 50th anniversary FC Schaan and FC Triesen – were established celebrations in 1932 and went on to found the Liechten- LFV stein Football Association (LFV) in 1934. FC Ruggell and FC Triesenberg followed in The club’s management took the opportu- Matthias Voigt, president of the LFV, 1958 and 1972 respectively. In between those nity to invite guests from home and abroad congratulated the club on behalf of the two, the Unterländer Sportverein (lowland to join in the 50th birthday celebrations. national association, reminding those sports club; USV) was set up in the municipali- Representatives of the worlds of sport and present that it is only through the actions ties of Eschen and Mauren in 1963. Fifty years politics came together with members of civil of individuals – people in all manner on, Eschen/Mauren is Liechtenstein’s largest society to toast the club, with one particular of positions – that the continued existence club in terms of the number of active birthday present being the publication of a and functioning of a club is guaranteed. members, as well as being one of the greatest special anniversary book looking back over in sporting terms, after FC Vaduz. the history of Eschen/Mauren. l Anton Banzer

Malta www.mfa.com.mt

FIFA badges presented for the months ahead were highlighted to Maltese referees by the MFA’s president and director of refereeing in their speeches. Special At a recent event organised by the mention was made of the success of the refereeing department of the Malta Football referees’ academy and the talent and Association (MFA), 2014 FIFA badges were mentor programme, as well as of the presented to the Maltese match officials on transformation of the refereeing depart- the world governing body’s international list. ment into learning centre for referees and Referees Esther Azzopardi Farrugia, Marco observers. Borg, Clayton Pisani and Alan Mario Sant, Reference was also made to the assistant referees Alan Camilleri, William increasing number of Maltese referees Aquilina Debattista, Christopher Francalanza, Mitchell appointed by FIFA and UEFA to various D. Scerri, Edward Spiteri and Ingmar Spiteri, friendly international matches, an exchange Clayton Pisani receives his 2014 FIFA badge futsal referee Franco Cachia, and beach programme for domestic league matches from the president of the Malta FA, Norman soccer referees Stefan Pace and Jude Amin (under which Maltese referees swap places Darmanin Demajo, with Adrian Casha, director of refereeing, on the right of the photo Utulu were all presented with FIFA badges with officials from an increasing number by the MFA’s president, Norman Darmanin of countries), and the participation of Demajo, in the presence of Adrian Casha, referees and observers in a number of UEFA Among those present were members of director of refereeing. courses. Adrian Casha’s participation in a the referees’ committee, observers, instruc- The work carried out by the refereeing UEFA CORE course as a coach was also tors and match officials from all categories. department in 2013 and the events planned recognised. l Alex Vella

UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 | 19 Member associations

Moldova The president of the www.fmf.md Moldovan FA, Pavel Cebanu, speaking at the annual awards ceremony Annual awards gala FMF

The Football Association of Moldova (FMF) Şevcic of JLC Chişinău), the best female Henrique of FC Sheriff) and the top goalscorer recently held its annual ceremony recognis- player (Anastasia Toma of Goliador-SS11), (Gheorghe Boghiu of FC Milsami-Ursidos). ing the year’s outstanding achievements in the best beach soccer player (Victor FC Tiraspol took the 2013 fair play the world of football. The gala was attended Comlionoc of CS Djoker-Tornado) and the award, and the FMF also presented awards by a number of officials, including Nicolae best football tennis player (Alexandru Sîrghi to the British, Swedish, Hungarian, Ukrainian Timofti, the president of Moldova. of ŞS nr. 12 Vadul lui Vodă). and Polish embassies in Moldova, as well as In front of 1,000 people, midfielder The ceremony continued with awards the border police of the ministry of internal Alexandru Gatcan, who plays for FC Rostov for the best goalkeeper in the national affairs. A special award was presented to Alina in Russia, received the 2013 player of the championship (Nicolae Calancea of Stetenco, the head coach of the national year award. There were also awards for the FC Zimbru Chişinău), the best defender women’s Under-17 team, for her courage best coach (Ion Caras, coach of Moldova’s (Miral Samardžić of FC Sheriff), the best in the fight against match-fixing. national team), the best referee (Piotr midfielder (Alexandru Dedov of FC Zimbru l Press office Stoianov), the best futsal player (Alexandru Chişinău), the best forward (Luvannor

Northern Ireland www.irishfa.com

Seven women celebrated development, Michael Boyd, said: “The IFA’s vision is to develop, promote and foster The Irish Football Association (IFA) recently Football for All in Northern Ireland. This celebrated the graduation of seven inspira- initiative is both innovative and ground- tional local women who had completed its breaking. I would like to congratulate all the female football leaders’ programme. The participants, partners, UEFA and IFA staff for event, held at the Long Gallery in Parliament making this happen. These inspirational and Buildings, Stormont, included an address by strong women are great role models for IFA keynote speaker Karen Espelund, chairwoman young people in the game and will go on to The female football leader graduates at Stormont of the UEFA Women’s Football Committee and make vital contributions to their clubs and a member of the UEFA Executive Committee. the local game. As a champion of football Coaching. “We conceived this programme to The IFA developed the programme as part of for all, I am delighted to support initiatives address the lack of females within leadership its SCORE 2 project. Funded through the UEFA like this which empower change and are positions in football and ultimately encourage women’s football development programme, transforming the game here.” more women to get involved in decision- this groundbreaking initiative is the first of its Run over 12 months, the programme making roles within their local football clubs. kind to be developed and piloted by the IFA. required the seven women from across The programme has exceeded all expectations The programme concentrates on improving Northern Ireland to complete the ILM’s Women and we are really proud of the women who the leadership competencies and confidence Leading the Way course, delivered by the Train- took part in the course,” said Sara Booth, the of women working locally in football. ing for Women Network, along with further IFA’s women’s domestic football manager and Congratulating participants on their units on resilience, high-impact conversations the programme organiser. achievement, the IFA’s director of football and board training, delivered by Advance l Sueann Harrison

Poland www.pzpn.pl

New coaching school opens of a two year UEFA Pro licence course for hall, locker rooms, offices and a pitch,” 20 coaches. said the PZPN president. The Polish Football Federation (PZPN) Just before 09.00, the Polish national Coaches will take courses on football recently opened its new coaching school in team’s official bus arrived at the PZPN’s medicine, training methodologies, pedagogy, Biała Podlaska. Top names in Polish football, headquarters, where it collected a number dietetics, physiology, sociology, and practical representatives of the local authorities of prominent individuals: former national and tactical activities, as well as public and numerous journalists all attended the team coaches Andrzej Strejlau, Henryk speaking and cooperation with the media. opening ceremony, which heralded the start Apostel and Janusz Wójcik, current coach After just one day of their UEFA Pro licence Adam Nawałka, and PZPN officials (including course, it was clear to the coaches that they the president, Zbigniew Boniek, and would enjoy first-class facilities. Franco Ferrari, general secretary, Maciej Sawicki). former president of the Italian Football They then travelled together to Biała Federation’s coaching school at Coverciano, Podlaska to open the PZPN’s new gave an excellent inaugural lecture, which coaching school. he rounded off by saying: “A coaching school “We want to ensure that we have doesn’t teach you how to become a good high-quality coaches in Poland. We coach. However, it gives you options and consider Biała Podlaska to be the knowledge about what you should do perfect place to gain coaching skills. to become one. A football coach is like a PZPN The conditions for doing so are doctor – he examines and diagnoses.” The UEFA Pro licence course participants excellent, as coaches have a lecture l Jakub Kwiatkowski

20 | UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 Republic of Ireland www.fai.ie

Sarah O’Shea appointed embarking on another important phase for Federation of Irish deputy CEO Irish football and I am keen to play a valuable Sport in January 2013 role, particularly in the administrative and and a panel member The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) organisational aspects of the association as at the Court of FAI recently announced the appointment of deputy to the CEO.” Arbitration for Sport Sarah O’Shea Sarah O’Shea as deputy CEO. Sarah O’Shea Paddy McCaul, president of the FAI, in September 2013. is currently the FAI’s director of legal affairs, said: “As current company secretary of the Meanwhile, in other news, Irish Premier a role she retains while taking on additional association, a member of UEFA’s HatTrick Division champions Saint Patrick’s Athletic FC duties as deputy to the CEO, John Delaney. Committee and chairperson of the Federa- secured a transfer coup by signing current Commenting on the appointment, tion of Irish Sport, Sarah is a highly respected Irish international Keith Fahey, who has Delaney said: “Since Sarah’s appointment figure in sport in Ireland and further afield.” joined the club for the third time. in 2006 she has made a substantial contribu- He added: “Sarah has worked very closely l Stephen Finn tion to the management team. She has and successfully with the board of the been an excellent legal director, establishing association and the grassroots, and on behalf the legal department and reforming the of the board and our members, I wish her association’s disciplinary processes. every success.” Slovakia “As the governance and administrative Sarah O’Shea qualified as a solicitor in www.futbalsfz.sk needs of the game change, the FAI continues 2000 and graduated from the FIFA master’s to adapt its structures, and Sarah’s appoint- programme in 2006. She joined the FAI in New national training centre ment is part of that process. Sarah brings her 2006 and is currently responsible for all legal opens in Poprad considerable skill sets to the role of deputy and disciplinary matters, governance issues, CEO, and her appointment will enhance the contracts, child welfare and football In November the president of the Slovak management structure as the association regulations. She was appointed company Football Association (SFZ), Ján Kováčik, continues to develop all strands of the game”. secretary in September 2010 and was officially opened the country’s new national Sarah O’Shea said that she was looking appointed to UEFA’s HatTrick Committee in training centre in Poprad following recon- forward to the challenge ahead: “We are July 2011. She became chairperson of the struction work. The centre’s main stand was completely rebuilt in the first phase of the

Russia www.rfs.ru

Valentin Ivanov takes charge From 2009 to 2013 he was a FIFA referee of referees department instructor. “The referees department is one of the On 30 December the president of the key parts of the Russian Football Union. Russian Football Union (RFS), Nikolai Valentin Ivanov is well known, so he needs Tolstykh, officially introduced the new head no introduction. I am sure that his consider- of the RFS referees and referee observers able professionalism, knowledge and department at the union’s headquarters in experience will be of great benefit to Russian SFZ Moscow. Valentin Ivanov, a 52-year-old football in this area,” Nikolai Tolstykh said. The president of the Slovak FA, Jan Kovacik, former referee, officially replaced Roberto “I am fully aware of how complicated and inaugurates the new national training centre Rosetti on 3 January. important this job will be. But I feel confident During his distinguished career as a that I will make a success of it. There is no project, and today it has a capacity of 2,000 referee, Valentin Ivanov was one of the doubt that this is a step forward in my seats, boasting 266 VIP seats, 50 press seats best-known officials in Russian football. He career,” Ivanov said. and 6 commentary boxes. Thanks to the SFZ’s refereed matches in the Russian champion- “I believe that the referees department partnership with Aquacity Poprad, the new ship from 1993 to 2007, and between 1997 should be more open with the media. We natural grass pitch is heated by geothermal and 2006 he was a FIFA referee. Among his will regularly inform the public regarding water – a unique solution in the world of honours, he refereed the final of the 2003 current events and let them know our views football and one that is highly beneficial from FIFA Confederations Cup and the 2003 regarding particular situations. As for an ecological point of view. This reconstruc- Intercontinental Cup, as well as officiating combining the RFS and FIFA positions, I don’t tion project was financed using €1.84 m of at EURO 2004 and the 2006 FIFA World Cup. think that is possible. The workload would funding from UEFA’s HatTrick programme. be too large. As a result, I am choosing to In the next phase, the SFZ plans to build focus entirely on the activities of the Russian additional stands and training pitches, so that Football Union. Among the events coming the stadium meets UEFA’s category 3 criteria up, there are a couple of international and can be used by Slovakia’s national teams competitions: the Valentin Granatkin for international matches. The pitch and memorial tournament, and the CIS Cup in infrastructure at the national training centre St Petersburg. After that, there will be have been tested and praised not only by the training camps for National Football League youth teams of Manchester United FC and and Premier League referees,” he added. AC Sparta Praha, but also by teams in the Sergey Zuev, Stanislav Sukhina and Slovak First League. This training centre, Vladimir Enyutin will all be assisting Vladimir which sits at the entrance to the High Tatras, Ivanov in the RFS referees and referee will greatly improve the development of RFS observers department. football in Slovakia. Valentin Ivanov l Irina Baranova l Juraj Čurný

UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 | 21 Member associations

Switzerland www.football.ch

Prize goes to FC Mümliswil

FC Mümliswil has 13 teams in total, of which as many as seven are youth teams. The club also offers women’s football. The men’s first team play in Switzerland’s fourth division.

The successful children’s festival hosted SFV by FC Mümliswil last summer was one of the highlights of the club’s 64-year history – as was the video marking the event The 2013 children’s festival in Mümliswil which the club sent to the Swiss Football Association. The beginning of that video That prediction came true. The children’s 167 votes – 57.39% of the total. As a depicts the founding of the club, with a festival was attended by some 300 E, F and prize for winning the video competition, fortune teller informing the club’s executive G-level youth players. And of all the videos the Swiss Football Association gave the club committee that their 2013 children’s submitted to the Swiss Football Association ten tickets to one of the national team’s festival will be the finest moment in their by festival hosts, FC Mümliswil’s was the home games in 2014. history. most popular by some distance, receiving l Pierre Benoit

Ukraine www.ffu.org.ua

New indoor arena for The president of the Ukrainian national youth teams FA, Anatoliy Konkov (left), with representatives of the Kiev local Following a meeting between Anatoliy authorities, announcing the good Konkov, the president of the Football news that a new sports complex for Federation of Ukraine (FFU), and the local FFU national youth teams is to be built authorities on 17 January, it has been announced that a sports complex for national youth teams will be built in 2015. everyone will be able to play football all year stadium in Vasylkiv and the construction It will be situated in Vyshhorod, on the round. We will build a modern stadium there of a sports complex in Ukrainka. Meanwhile, outskirts of Kyiv. that will allow our national youth teams to the planned sports complex in Vyshhorod The main subjects of the meeting between train and play official games. We can also will include a large arena with artificial the president of the FFU and the local open a youth football academy. Local author- turf, where international competitions can authorities included the development of ities have the possiblity to do this,” Anatoliy be held. football in the Kyiv region and the construc- Konkov said after the meeting. “We will also provide an opportunity for tion and modernisation of local facilities According to Anatoliy Prysyazhnyuk, children to play football there, so they can (stadiums and other sports infrastructure). governor of the Kyiv region and head of learn basic skills from an early age,” “We have been planning this initiative. We Kyiv’s regional football association, plans for Prysyazhnyuk added. will build an indoor football arena, where 2014 include the redevelopment of the l Yuriy Maznychenko

Wales www.faw.org.uk

New 3G surface for Bangor Work will begin soon on installing the new ment in the future of football here in Wales. surface at Bangor City’s training complex in We are delighted that Bangor City, one of Bangor City will be the first club in Wales Nantporth. our biggest clubs, has bought into the to take advantage of the 3G scheme initiated The club benefited from a £350,000 scheme. We hope that this announcement by the Football Association of Wales (FAW). investment in the project from the FAW as here today is the first of many and shows the part of the scheme to FAW’s commitment to improving facilities improve playing surfaces throughout the country.” throughout Wales and Bangor City’s chairman, Dilwyn Jones, was to make Welsh Premier delighted at the official announcement, League clubs the hub of saying: ”We cannot wait to get the building their communities. This project under way. This facility will not only is the largest single benefit Bangor City but will also benefit the investment made by the city and the wider community. We want this FAW into a single club for facility to be a focal point for football, to an infrastructure project. develop skills, but more importantly, to give The FAW’s president, everyone the chance to play the game on a FAW Trefor Lloyd Hughes, said: fantastic surface.” Bangor City’s ground will soon be getting a new, 3G playing surface “This is a major invest- l Ceri Stennett

22 | UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 Birthdays, calendar, notices

Helmut Spahn (Germany, 19 March) Fernando Ruiz Hierro (Spain, 23 March) Birthdays Ronald Zimmermann (Germany, 19 March) Daniel Prodan (Romania, 23 March) Benny Jacobsen (Denmark, 1 March) Aristides Stathopoulos (Greece, 20 March) Christoforos Zografos (Greece, 24 March) Luis Medina Cantalejo (Spain, 1 March) Sándor Csányi (Hungary, 20 March) Michael Kirchner (Germany, 25 March) 50th Edward Foley (Republic of Ireland, 20 March) Wilfried Straub (Germany, 26 March) Damir Vrbanović (Croatia, 2 March) Jim Boyce (Northern Ireland, Steen Jørgensen (Denmark, 26 March) Jenni Kennedy (England, 2 March) 40th 21 March) 70th Anton Ondruš (Slovakia, 27 March) Gerhard Mayer-Vorfelder Kai-Erik Arstad (Norway, 21 March) José Antonio Casajus (Spain, 27 March) (Germany, 3 March) Ginés Meléndez (Spain, 22 March) Armen Minasyan (Armenia, 27 March) Zbigniew Boniek (Poland, 3 March) Chris Georghiades (Cyprus, 22 March) Pavel Cebanu (Moldova, 28 March) Hans Lorenz (Germany, 3 March) Michail Kassabov (Bulgaria, 22 March) Edgar Obertüfer (Switzerland, 29 March) Alexandru Deaconu (Romania, 3 March) Luca Zorzi (Switzerland, 22 March) Ian Beasley (England, 29 March) Carolin Rudolph (Germany, 3 March) 40th Pafsanias Papanikolaou (Greece, 22 March) Stefan Ormandjiev (Bulgaria, 29 March) Patrick McGrath (Republic of Ireland, Bernard Barbet (France, 23 March) Alan Snoddy (Northern Ireland, 29 March) 4 March) Franz Krösslhuber (Austria, 23 March) Bernadette Constantin (France, 29 March) Franco Combi (Italy, 4 March) Andrea Lastrucci (Italy, 23 March) Bernardino González Vázquez Crawford Wilson (Northern Ireland, Mirosław Malinowski (Poland, 23 March) (Spain, 29 March) 5 March) Mahmut Özgener (Turkey, 23 March) Sanna Pirhonen (Finland, 29 March) Zoran Bahtijarević (Croatia, 5 March) 50th Hilda McDermott (Republic of Ireland, William Hugh Wilson (Scotland, 30 March) James Samuel Shaw (Northern Ireland, 23 March) 50th Richard Havrilla (Slovakia, 31 March) 6 March) Outi Saarinen (Finland, 23 March) Matteo Simone Trefoloni (Italy, 31 March) Boris Durlen (Croatia, 6 March) 60th Liana Melania Stoicescu (Romania, 6 March) 60th Ichko Lozev (Bulgaria, 6 March) Forthcoming Sandro Rosell (Spain, 6 March) 50th Notice Dan Ashworth (England, 6 March) events Pedro Maria Aurteneche Viñegra l The Danish FA has appointed (Spain, 7 March) Claus Bretton-Meyer as its new chief executive. He takes over from Jim Dušan Maravić (Serbia, 7 March) Meetings Stjerne Hansen on 1 March. Tomás Gea (Andorra, 7 March) 19 March, Nyon Josep Lluis Vilaseca Guasch (Spain, 8 March) Youth and Amateur Football Committee Giorgio Crescentini (San Marino, 8 March) Diogo Paiva Brandão (Portugal, 8 March) 21 March, Nyon Kris Bellon (Belgium, 8 March) UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa New book Alexis Ponnet (Belgium, 9 March) League: draws for the quarter-finals Encyklopedia piłkarska Vladimir Aleshin (Russia, 9 March) ROCZNIK 2013–2014 Henk Kesler (Netherlands, 9 March) 25/26 March, Astana Ruben Hayrapetyan (Armenia, 9 March) Executive Committee A 42st volume of Andrzej Gowar- Herbert Fandel (Germany, 9 March) 50th zewski’s encyclopedia – which is also Joseph S. Blatter (Switzerland, 10 March) 27 March, Astana Polish football’s official 2014 yearbook Mateo Beusan (Croatia, 10 March) XXXVIII UEFA Ordinary Congress – has now been published. This is an Ilkka Koho (Finland, 10 March) unrivalled mine of information on Carlos Del Campo Colás (Spain, 10 March) Poland’s domestic competitions and Jasmin Baković (Bosnia-Herzegovina, the players who feature in them. It 10 March) Competitions also contains details of European Diana Andersen (Denmark, 10 March) competitions and even those of other 11/12 + 18/19 March confederations. Lucien Kayser (Luxembourg, 11 March) UEFA Champions League: (Wydawnictwo GiA, PO Box 2772, Sergey Fursenko (Russia, 11 March) 60th round of 16 (return legs) 40-357 Katowice 14, Poland) Olga Zhukovska (Ukraine, 11 March) UEFA Youth League: quarter-finals Jean-François Crucke (Belgium, 12 March) Miroslav Vitković (Croatia, 12 March) 13 March Thomas Partl (Austria, 13 March) UEFA Europa League: Yngve Hallén (Norway, 14 March) round of 16 (first legs) Obituary Neil Jardine (Northern Ireland, 14 March) Former chairman of the UEFA Appeals Lucia Knappkova (Slovakia, 14 March) 15 March – 4 April, Costa Rica Body Léon Straessle of Switzerland Ivan Ćurković (Serbia, 15 March) 70th FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup passed away on 5 January aged 88. Götz Dimanski (Germany, 15 March) Léon Straessle chaired the Appeals Body Michael Thomas Ross (Northern Ireland, 20 March from 1988 to 2002 and the disciplinary UEFA Europa League: 15 March) study group from 1990 to 1992. He also round of 16 (return legs) Cornelius Bakker (Netherlands, 17 March) represented UEFA on various occasions Simeon Tsolakidis (Greece, 17 March) as an expert on sports law. 22/23 March Christos Skapoullis (Cyprus, 18 March) UEFA Women’s Champions League: A member of the circle of former Marcello Nicchi (Italy, 18 March) quarter-finals (first legs) UEFA committee members, Léon Andreas Georgiou (Cyprus, 18 March) Straessle was awarded the UEFA Order Marina Tashchyan (Armenia, 29/30 March of Merit in Diamond at the UEFA 18 March) 50th UEFA Women’s Champions League: Congress in Limassol, Cyprus, in 2004. Willy Sagnol (France, 18 March) quarter-finals (return legs)

UEFA •direct | 01-02.14 | 23