Interview

Welcome to our interview, Tomáš. It is a pleasure to have you on the premises of ŠK Mladosť, where the echoes of sportsmanship and inclusivity resound through the corridors. Your presence here is particularly esteemed, given your distinguished expertise in both legal matters and sustainability within the realm of sports.

As we delve into the intricacies of your journey, it is truly fascinating to uncover the layers of your multifaceted role within SK Mladosť. Your leadership and commitment to fostering a more inclusive sporting environment through initiatives like the 'Inclusion First' project are commendable. It is evident that you not only bring legal prowess but also a deep-seated passion for sustainable practices to the table, propelling positive change within the sporting community. Let us dive straight into the heart of our discussion, focusing on the core topics that drive our conversation today.

1. Tomáš, could you elaborate on how sustainability and green initiatives are integrated into the operational field of the project?

Absolutely. Sustainability and the green dimension are integral parts of every aspect of the "Inclusion First" project. From the planning stages to the execution of activities, we prioritize eco-friendliness and strive to minimize our environmental impact. For instance, during the transnational project meetings, we provided local transportation using electric vehicles, reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable mobility.

In addition, we were committed to utilizing exclusively eco-textiles and adhering to a fair-trade approach for all gadgets and eco-administrative materials used throughout the project. By choosing environmentally friendly materials and supporting fair-trade practices, we not only reduced our ecological footprint but also contributed to ethical and sustainable supply chains.

Furthermore, we have made a deliberate decision to organize transnational project meetings primarily in outdoor environments. This approach served multiple purposes.

Firstly, it helped to reduce electricity consumption and carbon footprint associated with indoor venues. Secondly, it provided participants with an opportunity for active engagement, including physical activities in the fresh air, promoting well-being and connection with nature.

Moreover, conducting outdoor project activities mitigated the risk of virus infections, which was particularly crucial considering the ongoing challenges posed by pandemics. By prioritizing outdoor settings and adhering to relevant health restrictions, we aimed to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants while maintaining the momentum of our project activities.

2. It is impressive to see such comprehensive efforts to integrate sustainability into every aspect of the project. How do you foresee these green initiatives contributing to the overall success of "Inclusion First"?

The incorporation of green initiatives into the "Inclusion First" project aligns with our overarching goal of promoting inclusivity, diversity, and social cohesion through sports. By prioritizing sustainability and eco-friendliness, we not only minimize our environmental impact but also set a positive example for other projects and organizations to follow. These green initiatives demonstrate our commitment to responsible and ethical practices, enhancing our credibility and reputation within the community.

Moreover, by organizing outdoor project activities and utilizing eco-friendly materials, we create a more engaging and immersive experience for participants, fostering a deeper connection with the project's objectives and values. This holistic approach to sustainability not only benefits the environment but also enhances the overall effectiveness and impact of our project activities.

In essence, sustainability is not just a standalone aspect of the "Inclusion First" project; it is woven into the fabric of every initiative and decision we make. By embracing sustainability as a core principle, we are laying the foundation for a more inclusive, equitable, and environmentally conscious future.

3. Tomáš, beyond the environmental aspects, your involvement in sports extends to promoting values, ethics, and inclusion. Can you elaborate on how sports can instil important values in individuals and communities?

Absolutely. Sports have the remarkable ability to foster values such as teamwork, discipline, perseverance, and respect. Through participation in sports, individuals learn the importance of cooperation, goal-setting, and resilience, which are invaluable skills both on and off the field.

Moreover, sports can promote inclusivity and diversity by bringing people from different backgrounds together, fostering understanding and empathy. Overall, sports serve as a powerful platform for promoting positive values and shaping ethical behaviour.

4. Ethics in sports is a topic of increasing importance. How do you approach ethical considerations within the realm of sports, particularly in your role as the Chair of SK Mladosť?

Ethics in sports is indeed a critical issue, and it is something we take very seriously at SK Mladosť. As the Chair, I am committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, fairness, and sportsmanship in all our activities. This includes promoting transparency, accountability, and respect for the rules and regulations governing sports.

Additionally, we strive to create a culture of ethical conduct among our members, emphasizing the importance of honesty, integrity, and respect for opponents. By prioritizing ethics in sports, we not only uphold the integrity of the game but also contribute to the positive development of individuals and communities.

5. Inclusion is a central theme in your work, particularly through initiatives like the "Inclusion First" project. How do you ensure that sports are accessible and welcoming to all members of society?

Inclusion is indeed a cornerstone of our work at SK Mladosť and the "Inclusion First" project. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to participate in sports regardless of their background, abilities, or circumstances. To ensure inclusivity, we actively engage with marginalized communities, provide resources and support for individuals with disabilities, and create accessible pathways for participation. Additionally, we prioritize diversity in our programming, promoting representation and inclusion of individuals from diverse cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. By fostering an inclusive environment, we not only enrich the sporting experience for all participants but also promote social cohesion and unity.

6. With your expertise in both law and sports, how do you see the relationship between sports and the European Union evolving in the future?

The relationship between sports and the European Union is complex and multifaceted, encompassing various aspects such as policy development, funding, and regulation. I believe that the EU will continue to play a significant role in shaping the future of sports through initiatives that promote inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation.

This includes supporting grassroots sports programs, investing in infrastructure development, and addressing issues such as doping, match fixing, and discrimination. Additionally, the EU has a role to play in promoting good governance and transparency in sports organizations, ensuring accountability and integrity in the administration of sports. Overall, I see the EU as a key partner in advancing the values and principles of sports in Europe and beyond.

7. Looking ahead, what do you envision for the future of sports, particularly in terms of sustainability, inclusion, and innovation?

The future of sports holds immense potential for positive change, particularly in terms of sustainability, inclusion, and innovation. I envision a future where sports are not only a source of entertainment and competition but also a catalyst for social change and environmental stewardship. This includes leveraging technology and data analytics to enhance performance, improve athlete safety, and promote fair play.

Moreover, I see a growing emphasis on sustainability in sports, with organizations prioritizing eco-friendly practices, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting environmental conservation. Additionally, I believe that sports will continue to serve as a powerful tool for promoting inclusion and diversity, breaking down barriers, and fostering social cohesion. Overall, I am optimistic about the future of sports and the positive impact it can have on individuals, communities, and the planet.

8. Thank you, Tomáš, for sharing how sustainability and green initiatives are integrated into the "Inclusion First" project. Your commitment to promoting inclusivity and environmental stewardship is truly inspiring.

Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important aspects of our project. I am excited to continue our efforts to make a positive impact in both social and environmental spheres.