The European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) will be held in Maribor in the last days of July, attracting over 4,500 participants. Aside from a diverse sports and entertainment program, what will it bring to Maribor and Slovenia?
Maribor will host an extraordinary competition for young athletes. Between July 23 and 29, approximately 2,500 athletes between the ages of 14 and 18 from across Europe will compete in 11 EYOF sports disciplines.
For many young and aspiring athletes, this will be their first introduction to the Olympic family and world, and such a large event will leave a lasting mark in Maribor and Slovenia.
In addition to the opportunities that the festival will provide for young people, the effects of EYOF will be visible in the host city and throughout the country. We will be kindly invited to cheer (primarily) for local athletes during the festival events, and a rich accompanying program and events are also promised until the festival begins.
What is more, the city will have the remaining infrastructure after the events are over. For example, the renovated Tabor hall, the Pristan swimming pool, and Tenis Branik’s heated indoor tennis hall. Then there’s sports equipment, of course. After the festival, this will be available to be used by sports clubs, societies, and others interested in participating in sports activities.
And finally, with the festival, all commendable Olympic values are strengthened and personalities are shaped. All the athletes at the festival are preparing for their future sport and life challenges. This will be a very special experience especially for local athletes, who will be able to experience EYOF at home. To compete in your country for your country with the support of your home team is a special occasion and a special honor for our athletes.
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