The “Flame” (Floga in Greek) burns and will continue to burn as long as there are children in need. Children who will not spend this holiday season at home, as they are bravely fighting to overcome a formidable adversary. On Thursday afternoon (19/12), representatives of Olympiacos FC and Stoiximan visited the “Floga” Association for the 10th consecutive year.
Lorenzo Pirola, Julian Biancone, Panagiotis Retsos, and Charalampos Kostoulas spent time with these true warriors of life and brought smiles to their sweet faces that lit up upon seeing them. The players of our team gave out gifts, took photos with the children, and offered them hope—a word of immense power that gives strength and motivation to carry on.
Biancone called the children “lions,” expressing his joy and emotion over the visit:
“It was very important for us to be here today for the children before Christmas, to bring a little joy to their faces. We see that football is not the most important thing in life. There are far more important things. I wish all the children continued strength in their daily battle. I’m deeply moved and truly appreciate this moment—it’s about much more than football. Olympiacos sets the best example. The children are lions and will continue to fight for a good life and to overcome their health problems”.
Panagiotis Retsos referred to the experience as a lesson in life:
“We are very grateful to Floga for giving us the opportunity to be part of such an important event. Words are not enough. The children and their parents teach us life lessons. We are moved and proud to be able to help in any way we can. I wish everyone good health, a Merry Christmas, and all the best for the future”.
Lorenzo Pirola sent a message of strength and serenity for the holiday season:
“It’s truly wonderful every time we get the chance to be with people who need it. It brings me great joy. We wish a full recovery to all the children, and to their families strength and peaceful, joyful holidays”.
Charalampos Kostoulas emphasized:
“We are happy to stand by these children, who are true fighters in life. With these small gifts, we tried to make them feel a bit better. We are always by their side”.
For many years, Mrs. Maria Tryfonidi has been at the forefront of the fight.
“Thank you so much for coming here today and giving such joy to children who have no other way to receive it. Their happiness at seeing the players is immense. These children are lions. I want to thank Olympiacos. I also thank Stoiximan, which has always been by our side all these years, supporting us with significant sponsorships. They give us the opportunity to bring Christmas joy to children who cannot go home for the holidays,” said the President of “Floga”—a flame that burns eternally and grows ever stronger.
Christos Pylarinos, Sponsorship Manager at Stoiximan, stated:
“At Stoiximan, corporate responsibility is an integral part of our philosophy. Through targeted initiatives, we aim to meaningfully support children facing serious health challenges by offering them hope and encouragement in their fight for a better tomorrow.
With great joy and a sense of responsibility, we mark 10 years of supporting the children of Floga, in partnership with Olympiacos FC, jointly contributing to the valuable work of the organization. With a vision for a world where all children have equal opportunities in life, we stand once again with these young heroes and their families, and we sincerely wish them strength, optimism, and a speedy recovery”.
President of Olympiacos Mr. Evangelos Marinakis consistently emphasizes the importance of returning the club’s love to the community—not just with words, but through concrete actions. One such action was today’s visit: a visit of love to children in need. Olympiacos stood by Floga and will continue to do so, bringing a flame of hope and life.
