Athletic Club shows Lezama project to the European Commission

The vice-president of the European Commission, Margaritis Schinas, accompanied by members of his cabinet María Luisa Llano Cardenal and Ioannis Virvilis, visited Athletic Club's facilities to see first-hand the sporting, educational and social project in place at Lezama.

Athletic Club president Jon Uriarte, general manager Jon Berasategi and director of football Mikel González hosted the commission and explained the pillars of Athletic's youth academy. 

The delegation departed impressed by the magnitude and significance of Athletic's commitment to youth football. They also spoke to under-18 player Oier Unamuno, who explained the sense of belonging which exists at the club.

Schinas, as a Greek who is passionate about sport and football in particular, had the opportunity to talk to Ernesto Valverde and congratulate him not only for his current successes, but also for the impact and appreciation he has in Greece.

Athletic's project is a comprehensive development programme delivered in a top-level high-performance centre, which also incorporates approaches that turn sport and football into a tool of great social value, favouring inclusion, culture and the good of the community.

Community director Johana Ruiz-Olabuenaga and director of strategy Raúl Martínez also represented Athletic and went into further detail about the project's short and medium term goals.

For Athletic Club it is a priority to develop and boost the international impact of the project concerning groups at risk of social exclusion, as well as to be an example in the fight against racism and to promote diversity and gender equality.

The promotion of physical activity in society as a tool for improving health is also part of the club's objectives.