Heraklion (Greece) - From 9 to 17 August, the EuroBasket U16 took place on the beautiful island of Crete. Apart from the on-court moments, the competition also offered a great educational experience through various Basketball For Good activities.

Youth Leaders Gina Kyriazopoulou and Zacharias Stagakis organized actions focused on road safety and alcohol-free living. The Hellenic Basketball Federation, in collaboration with the Laboratory of Health and Road Safety of the Hellenic Mediterranean University (HMU), the Organization Against Drugs (OKANA), and the Panhellenic Association SOS Traffic Crimes, held an informative event to raise awareness about the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol, with the central slogan "Don't Drink and Drive."

The event was graced by the presence of Tit Albrecht, President-elect of the European Public Health Association, who praised the initiative of the HBF, FIBA, and the FIBA Foundation for using sporting events to promote such an important public health issue on a European level.

FIBA officials, referees, athletes, and staff from the competition's teams also had the opportunity to participate in an innovative simulation project. The laboratory's simulator has 40 different scenarios (extreme weather conditions, alcohol use, etc.), where drivers can test their reflexes under various conditions. Participants experienced and learned the importance of prudent driving. Additionally, they were given the opportunity to drive special training electric vehicles, to familiarize themselves with eco-mobility, which is a key element of sustainable development.

During EuroBasket U16, another social responsibility action focused on the consequences of alcohol abuse was carried out at the Nea Alikarnassos stadium. Fans were informed about the consequences of alcohol consumption in an interactive way, by shooting at a basketball court while wearing special alcohol impairment simulation goggles—something that significantly affected their functionality.

The FIBA Foundation is the social and legacy arm of FIBA that addresses the role of sports and particularly basketball in society, preserving and promoting basketball’s values and its cultural heritage.

The FIBA Foundation believes that basketball has the power to empower, educate and inspire youth and facilitates this by implementing Basketball For Good projects around the world.

FIBA