In Italy the first national and international event dedicated to youth Futsal movement, the “Montesilvano Futsal Cup”

Futsal, a discipline that in recent years has been winning the interest of sportsmen and young athletes from all over the world. A sporting discipline that combines collective strategy and individual technique, capable of surprising for the quality of the technical gestures of rare beauty and for the sometimes surprising outcome of the results, subverting predictions and changing the results of a race in a few moments.

Futsal, although far from the spotlight, in recent years has been increasing its popularity and visibility.

The aim is to get the right recognition on a global level, creating the basis for professionalism. While professionalism is not always a qualifying aspect, on the other it is the only element that qualifies and guarantees adequate maintenance for the entire movement. But for a substantial breakthrough, even more so than the federations, the initiative of the clubs is important, the only ones that operating in the area spread the qualities of this sport.

Based on these assumptions, in 2012, the futsal sports project “Montesilvano Futsal Cup” was born.

The creators of this prestigious initiative have been able to win the trust and consensus both   nationally and internationally. The MFC is now recognized as one of the most important youth futsal events in the world.

The Montesilvano Futsal Cup is a showcase for the young talent who wants to finalize the development of their career at prestigious clubs both nationally and internationally, thanks to the presence of highly accredited observers and coaches in the world of futsal.

How the “Montesilvano Futsal Cup” came to be

The event, which bears the name of a town in Abruzzo, was founded by a team of people who work in the sector, working within sports clubs qualified in Football with 5 “Roman style”.
As history of the sport shows, the movement “Calcetto” finds fertile ground in Rome, a city that boasts an important tradition. This tradition has taken place over time so that Rome now boasts more than 70 Schools of Calcetto.
The organizers of the “Montesilvano Futsal Cup” have been able to involve the best football clubs in five different areas of Italy, particularly Montesilvano and Pescara, who have understood the potential of the project, supported it and made themselves available to ensure that the event continues with the objectives of both national and international growth.
Thanks to the active collaboration of the municipalities of Montesilvano and Pescara, in conjunction with the clubs Acqua & Sapone, Ca5 Montesilvano and Pescara Ca5 was possible to give life to the 1st Edition of Montesilvano Futsal Cup 2012.

“Montesilvano Futsal Cup”: Italian excellence

In the development of the project “Montesilvano Futsal Cup” the organization has made choices geared toward the qualification and the internationalization of the event. The name itself is an extension of an all too clear ideological concept:

• The location: Montesilvano, pleasant town on the coast of Abruzzo, is also one of the most important centers of the Italian Futsal. In the area of Pescara-Montesilvano throughout the years there have been three major clubs: Acqua & Sapone; Montesilvano Ca5 (winner of the UEFA Futsal Cup in 2009-2010) and Pescara Ca5. As would be expected, Pescara-Montesilvano indoor sports facilities are concentrated among the most beautiful and innovative in Italy, like the Palaroma, the Pala Rigopiano, the Palasport John Paul II and Pala Seine, which will return to use after restoration;
• The choice of the name “Futsal”, given with the motive to extend the boundaries beyond national territory, to Spain, Belgium, Croatia, Russia, not to mention Great Britain, Greece and Sweden.

To date, the “Montesilvano Futsal Cup” is the ideal event for clubs that teach the most talented and express the best of the sport.  The organization’s intention is to continue to invite all the clubs to participate and play a leading role both nationally and internationally, together with its pure youth sector, distinguished by the quality of their programs.

The event has chosen to give visibility to the supply chain of the youth sector, from football schools to the Under-21 category, because in these programs there is the strength and quality to develop professionalism in Football with 5’s Divisions like Serie A, Serie B and Serie A2.

The Aim Of The “Montesilvano Futsal Cup” Project

Those who conceived the idea of a developed “Montesilvano Futsal Cup” have one goal in mind: “to advance the sport by acting as a capillary at the local and international level.”
To advance the awareness of the movement requires the development of national and international relations, focusing on all the sources that have given rise to Futsal and over the years that have developed its potential.
We can talk about “growth” as it becomes vital to the application of a principle of “fruitful cooperation” among those who share the same passion, pooling the different techniques of work, in the management of operational processes. The comparison of different experiences is the primary basis of a quick process and oriented “learning”.
This “fruitful collaboration” between the different football realities extends the boundaries of the global map of the Futsal and establishes a network of useful contacts to increase the skills in this discipline.
With the objective of growth, the organizers of “Montesilvano Futsal Cup” directed their interest to the world of Italian youth Futsal, guaranteeing clubs and young athletes to compete outside their region and with those abroad. At the same time the “Montesilvano Futsal Cup” is a time for conversions and meetings between the clubs in the area, with the interest of producing new initiatives to promote and raise the level of attention the worlds gives to Futsal.

Why participate in the “Montesilvano Futsal Cup”

To participate in the “Montesilvano Futsal Cup” means to be part of a growing movement that helps Futsal to win its independence and its world-recognized professionalism.
To participate in the “Montesilvano Futsal Cup” is to live out the emotions of protagonists, thanks to its large stage, public presence, and exposure to those who work for the big clubs.
To participate in the “Montesilvano Futsal Cup” is to know and learn from different realities. It is a direct experience of life and growth.
The “Montesilvano Futsal Cup” is the tournament for those who want to live the experience of champions!

The concept of sports code of ethics

Believing in the principles of respect and equality between beings, we could not miss the opportunity to share the concept of the Sports Code of Ethics with all of you, bringing to everyone’s attention a document duly accepted by the European Community.

The document is mainly oriented to the primary concepts for a healthy growth of children and young athletes; however, principles of loyalty are expressed in the document which, in order to be applied, require the understanding and support of the adult.

With this initiative we turn our interest precisely to the adult, trusting in his paternal and rational instinct, confirming himself as a loyal and sporty person, thus accepting the concept of fair play, denying intolerance and sporting rudeness.

We invite you to read and remember that the spirit of a sports competition must never go beyond the boundaries of due respect and personal safety. It is a sport and as such it must be lived.

The most recent publication “the code of sporting conduct” of 02 February 2012 released by CONI was also attached to the site.

EUROPEAN CODE OF SPORTS ETHICS

(approved by the European Ministers responsible for Sport, gathered in Rhodes for their 7th conference, 13-15 May 1992)

FAIR PLAY – THE WINNING WAY

WHOEVER PLAYS FAIR IS ALWAYS A WINNER

(Qui joue loyalement est toujours gagnant)

Introduction

• The Code of Sports Ethics of the Council of Europe is a declaration of intent, adopted by the European Ministers responsible for Sport.
• Il Codice di Etica Sportiva parte dal principio che le considerazioni etiche insite nel “gioco leale” (fair play) non sono elementi facoltativi, ma qualcosa d’essenziale in ogni attività sportiva, in ogni fase della politica e della gestione del settore sportivo. Queste considerazioni sono applicabili a tutti i livelli di abilità e impegno nell’attività sportiva, dallo sport ricreativo a quello agonistico. The Code of Sports Ethics starts from the principle that the ethical considerations inherent in “fair play” are not optional elements, but something essential in every sporting activity, in every phase of the politics and management of the sports sector. These considerations are applicable to all levels of skill and commitment in sports, from the recreational one to the competitive one.
• The code provides a solid ethical framework to combat pressures that seem to undermine the traditional foundations of sport built on fair play, sporting spirit and voluntary movement in contemporary society.

Definition of fair play – The fair game

• The main interest point of the Code is the fair play of children and young people in recognition of the fact that the children and young people of the present will be the practitioners and stars of the sport of tomorrow. However, the Code is aimed at institutions and adults who have a direct or indirect influence on the education and participation of young people in sport.
• The Code presupposes both the right of children and young people to play a sport and to derive satisfaction from it both the responsibilities of institutions and adults in promoting fair play and ensuring that these rights are respected.
• Fair play means more than just following the rules. It incorporates the concepts of friendship, respect for others and a sporting spirit. Fair play is a way of thinking, not just a way of behaving. It includes the fight against cheating, against tricks, the fight against doping, violence (both physical and verbal), sexual harassment and abuse of children, young people or women, exploitation, inequality opportunities, over-commercialization and corruption
• Fair play is a positive concept. The Code recognizes sport as a socio-cultural activity that enriches society and friendship between nations, provided it is practiced fairly. Sport is also recognized as an activity that – practiced fairly – offers individuals the opportunity to know themselves, to express themselves and achieve satisfaction, to achieve personal successes, acquire technical skills and demonstrate skills, to interact socially, have fun, achieve good health. With its wide range of sports clubs and volunteer operators, sport is an opportunity for participation and accountability. Furthermore, a conscious involvement in some activities can help to promote sensitivity towards the environment.

Responsibility for fair play

The sporting participation of children and young people takes place within a broader social context. Society and the individual will be able to fully enjoy the potential benefits that sport can offer only when fair play is the center of attention and not a marginal concept. Fair play must be given the highest priority by all those who, directly or indirectly, favor and promote sports experiences for children and young people. In particular, it concerns:

1. governments at all levels, including other bodies operating in these areas. Those who deal with educational facilities have a special responsibility;
2. sports or sports-related organizations, such as sports federations and other sports governing bodies; sports and physical education clubs, training institutes, the bodies of the health and pharmaceutical professions, the mass media. The commercial sector – including manufacturers, retailers and marketing agencies of sporting goods – must also assume a responsibility in contributing to the promotion of fair play;
3. of individuals, ie parents, teachers, coaches, referees, match officials, sports managers, administrators, journalists, doctors and pharmacists, including top-level athletes who are role models. The Code is applicable to all those who work in sport both on a voluntary and professional basis. Spectators can also take responsibility for fair play.

Every institution and every single person have a responsibility and a role to play. This Code of Ethics is addressed to them. It is effective only if all those who work in the sports world are willing to take on the responsibilities that are indicated.

Governments

Governments have the following responsibilities:

1. stimulate the adoption of effective ethical criteria in all sectors of society in which sport is present;
2. to encourage and support those organizations and people who, in their activity with sport, demonstrate sound ethical principles;
3. encourage teachers to consider the promotion of sport and fair play as a central component of school sports education programs;
4. support initiatives aimed at promoting fair play in sport, particularly among young people, and encourage institutions to make fair play a priority;
5. Encourage research at national and international level to improve understanding of the complex problems of youth sports and to identify unsporting;
6. behaviors and opportunities to promote fair play.

Individuals

Individuals have the following responsibilities:

• personal behavior

1. have an exemplary behavior that constitutes a positive role model for children and young people; not to reward unfair behavior in any way, nor to adopt it personally, nor to close one’s eyes on those of others; apply appropriate sanctions against any unfair behavior;
2. ensure that one’s level of training and qualification is suited to the needs of children according to the different levels of sporting commitment.

• actions towards young people

3. ensure that the health, safety and well-being of children or young athletes come before any other consideration such as the success – even through third parties – or the reputation of the school, sports club, coach or parent;
4. give children a sporting experience that encourages them to participate in healthy physical activity throughout their life;
5. avoid treating children simplistically as little adults, be aware of the physical and psychological transformations involved in youth maturation and how these changes affect sports performance;
6. avoid imposing expectations on a child that are disproportionate to her possibilities;
7. to highlight the pleasure and satisfaction of playing sports, and not to exert undue pressure contrary to the right of the child to choose freely on her participation;
8. devote equal interest to young people with greater or lesser talent; underline and reward, in addition to the most evident competitive successes, individual progression and the acquisition of personal skills;
9. encourage the little ones to develop their own games with their own rules, to take on the role of coach, referee and referee as well as that of participant; to develop their own incentives and sanctions for fair play or for acts of unfairness, to take personal responsibility for their actions;
10. provide young people and their families with much informations as possible on the risks and potential benefits of achieving high sporting performance.

Sports or sports-related organizations

Sports organizations, or in any case connected to sport, have the following responsibilities:

• creation of a suitable context for fair play

1. publish clear guidelines to define behaviors compliant or non-compliant  to ethics,  verify – in all forms of sport and at all levels of participation – the application of coherent and appropriate incentives and / or sanctions;
2. ensure that all decisions comply with a code of ethics applicable to their sporting discipline and inspired by the European Code;
3. raise awareness of fair play within their sphere of influence through opinion campaigns, awards, educational materials and training opportunities. They must also monitor and evaluate the impact of these initiatives;
4. create systems that reward fair play and personal progression, as well as competitive success;
5. provide help and support to journalists to promote fair play.

• actions towards young people

6. to ensure that competitive structures recognize the special needs of the young and growing child, and that they allow gradual levels of participation, from recreational to highly competitive levels;
7. to support the modification of the regulations in order to respect the special needs of young people and so that the emphasis is placed on fair play as well as on competitive success;
8. guaranteeing safeguarding actions – in a context of support and protection towards children, young people and women – both to protect such people from sexual harassment and abuse both to prevent the exploitation of children, particularly those who show precocious attitudes;
9. ensure that all members of the organization with responsibility towards children and young people are well qualified to guide, train, educate and coach these age groups and, in particular, that they understand the biological and psychological changes involved in the maturation process of children.

Conclusion

Fair play is essential if sport and participation are to be successful in promoting and developing. Loyalty in sport – fair play – is beneficial for the individual, for sporting organizations and for society as a whole.

We all have a responsibility to promote FAIR PLAY, THE WINNING WAY (WHO PLAYS FAIRLY IS ALWAYS THE WINNER).

RESOLUTION OF THE MINISTERS OF EUROPE ON THE CODE OF SPORTS ETHICS

The European Ministers responsible for Sport, gathered in Rhodes for their seventh

Conference on May 13-15, 1992, 

• hoping to see sport played in the spirit of the “European Charter of Sport”;
• aware of the pressures that modern society – marked, among other things, by the race for success and the media – exerts on sport;
• convinced of the need to offer sportspeople a frame of reference that allows them to make responsible choices when facing these pressures;
• convinced that the integration of the principles set out in the Code in physical education programs and in the policies of sports organizations will not fail to positively influence the attitudes of participants and the general public regarding sport.

THEY DECIDE

• to give their full support to the Code of Sports Ethics;
• to disseminate the Code in its own language within sports organizations and to promote its dissemination in all appropriate sectors, particularly those in which we work with young people;
• to cooperate at European level in order to promote a wide dissemination of the Code;

INVITE

• the adoption of this Code of Sports Ethics as a Recommendation to Governments;
• the authorities responsible for school and extra-curricular education to be encouraged to include the principles set out in the Code of Sports Ethics in physical education programs;
• regional, national and international sports organizations to be encouraged to hold onto the principles outlined in the Code, in their campaigns in favor of strengthening sports ethics.