MILAN – This morning an agreement protocol was signed between Milan city council, F.C. Internazionale and Comunità Nuova for the Sport Zone project, a social programme promoting sport.
Here's what Inter CEO Michael Bolingbroke said at a press conference held at Palazzo Marino, Milan Town Hall:
"In the 108 years that have passed since the Club's foundation, Inter have experienced many great triumphs, and just like any football team, some less successful periods. One area where Inter have always led the way, and impressed even non-Nerazzurri supporters, is the care and attention shown towards social issues. It's as if 'lending a hand' is a core value in the Club's history, passed down from one generation to the next, regardless of results on the pitch.
"To illustrate that, I like the analogy of Inter having two big lungs when it comes to social issues. The first - the great Inter Campus project - breathes life into poor areas around the world. The other, meanwhile, is active in Inter's local area. And it is the latter project that leaves its mark in a great metropolis like Milan, supporting social initiatives which work specifically with young people, harnessing football as an educational tool.
"Today it brings us great pride to be here to support the Sport Zone project in conjunction with Milan city council and Comunità Nuova.
"As we've heard, Sport Zone comprises a series of schemes, which educate people through sport in the local area. Two of these have really caught my attention in recent months.
"The first is the day celebrating positive support, “Io Tifo Positivo”. After following a course at school on the importance of constructive support, around 1,000 children visited our stadium for the Inter vs. Bologna match with positive banners and chanting. Their enthusiasm was infectious.
"The second is the “Tweet Off Racism” scheme on the global day against racial discrimination. Once again, the youngsters used their own simple, genuine thoughts and pictures to stress how stupid racism is and how much work still needs to be done to ultimately rid society of this scourge.
"Therefore I would like to thank Milan city council for joining us on this journey. I also thank Comunità Nuova for the passion and skill they have shown. Together we’re able to provide a credible and concrete presence in the local area. Inter are proud to sign this agreement protocol and keen to do likewise next season."
Associazione Communità Nuova Onlus president Dino Gino Rinoldi added: "Taking part in sport is educational in itself. You work together to achieve certain goals and there are competitions to win. For adults it's a wonderful thing to be able to spend time with youngsters and promote a positive identity. I'm happy to be here to sign this agreement with Inter and Giuliano Pisapia."
The mayor of Milan, Giuliano Pisapia then took the floor: "It's important to have the opportunity to practise sport and watch great sport. Sport brings people together, lets them have fun and learn. I would like to thank Inter, Zanetti, Bolingbroke, Milly Moratti and Don Gino for this marvellous initiative, which embodies Milan's ability to speak to the world and create integration."
