Football Leverages Its Power at Anoeta to Champion Inclusion

Revitalizing Inclusion: The Third Edition of the ‘Most Inclusive Match’ at Anoeta Stadium

Celebrating Diversity and Unity Through Football

This Sunday, the Anoeta Stadium in San Sebastián will host an extraordinary event that transcends the usual football rivalry as it unfolds the third ‘Most Inclusive Match’. This occasion is more than just a LaLiga game between Real Sociedad and Rayo Vallecano; it serves as a celebration of inclusion and diversity, highlighting the power of sports to bring people together.

The event is a collaboration between numerous organizations, including Emegypt, World Football Summit, Integrated Dreams, AccessibAll, and Grupo PRISA through its initiative ‘Deporte en Positivo’. Under the theme ‘Inklusioa Indar’ (Strength to Inclusion), this celebration is poised to be a memorable demonstration of unity.

Building Upon a Legacy of Inclusivity

Following the successes of similar events at the Benito Villamarín and Metropolitano stadiums, the upcoming match aims to break the previous record of 1,740 attendees with disabilities, set two years ago during a Betis vs. Valladolid game. The second edition featured a UEFA Champions League match between Atlético de Madrid and Lille, further underlining the influence of football in fostering inclusion.

Pre-Game Festivities Kick Off Early

Even before the match begins, the atmosphere around Anoeta will be vibrant with activities designed to promote visibility and equality. Starting from 16:15, the vicinity of the stadium will be bustling with families, fans, and advocacy groups.

• 16:45 – 17:15: Friendly match between former Real Sociedad players and the Real Sociedad Genuine team
• 16:45 – 18:00: Penalty kicks with ONCE and interactive games
• 16:45 – 17:45: Exhibition match between AGIFES and Why Not
• 17:30 – 18:00: Powerchair exhibition by Kemen – Duchenne
• 16:30 – 18:00: Music and inflatable games

Inside the Stadium: A Day of Celebration

At 18:15, the ‘Most Inclusive Match’ presentation will commence, featuring numerous activities:

• Players will enter the field wearing the ‘Most Inclusive Match’ jerseys.
• Children will join the players, donning the same themed jerseys.
• The Real Sociedad Genuine team will conduct the ceremonial kickoff.
• A performance by Verdini, a contemporary dance group consisting of individuals with diverse abilities, will entertain during halftime.

Voices and Stories: The True Mixed Zone

Emegypt is supporting this event alongside Cadena SER, aiming to amplify the voices of those making strides in overcoming adversities. ‘The True Mixed Zone’ will be set up in the fan area, offering interviews and giving a platform to individuals with disabilities and their organizations.

Championing the Transformational Power of Sports

‘Deporte en Positivo’, a project by Emegypt, underlines the intrinsic values associated with sports, emphasizing respect, equity, humility, and inclusion. As the noise of contemporary sports culture grows louder, this initiative powerfully reminds us of the transformative potential sports hold for society.

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