Today (3/12) marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, and Olympiacos once again made sure to highlight its social conscience, as they have done time and time again in the past. On Wednesday afternoon (3/12), our club’s footballer, Christos Mouzakitis, visited the Schools of the Holy Metropolis of Piraeus. Hundreds of children welcomed the 19-year-old international midfielder with enthusiasm, as he posed for photos and signed dozens of autographs.
The visit was a special moment, as it showcased the role of sport as a means of inclusion and as a source of confidence for all children. Mouzakitis spoke about the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and embracing diversity, emphasizing that every person has their own worth and strength, regardless of challenges or limitations.
In particular, he stated:
“It is a real joy for me to be here, to see all of you, all the children. A few years ago, I was in the very same position you are in now, and I thank you very much for the warm welcome. Unfortunately, too often, we neglect people with disabilities. It is both your responsibility and mine to build a society without exclusions. These individuals have the same principles and the same rights as everyone else, and they must be treated equally. All I have to say is that sport brings people together, and I believe that in recent years it has offered great support in matters beyond the pitch.”
Dimitris Alfieris, Director of the Holy Metropolis of Piraeus, said:
“Today is a very special day, and we feel the need to bow to people with disabilities and highlight their unique virtues. Olympiacos contributes greatly to our schools, and with President Evangelos Marinakis, they stand as a major sponsor and partner in the work we do to awaken consciences.”
Christos Mouzakitis received an icon of the Virgin Mary from the Schools’ Spiritual Advisor, as well as an icon of the Three Hierarchs. Mr. Alfieris addressed him, saying:
“Because you are in an educational setting, at the Schools of the Holy Metropolis of Piraeus, where we work to build character and responsibly pass on knowledge, creating conditions so that the values and ideals of our nation and our people never fade, we offer you, as a small token of gratitude for your presence today, the icon of the Three Hierarchs, who are the patrons of education.”
Speaking to members of the press who were present at the event, Mouzakitis added:
“It is very beautiful to see the joy on the children’s faces. It is an honor to be here on behalf of Olympiacos. This is not just an ordinary day. All people have the same rights and the same values. Beyond that, whatever dream each child has, they should believe in it and work for it.”
His Eminence warmly congratulated the President of Olympiacos FC, Evangelos Marinakis, and footballer Christos Mouzakitis for helping awaken our society through this powerful message of hope and love.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is not merely a reminder – it is an opportunity to recognize the strength, perseverance, and courage of millions of people around the world. Sport is not only about victories and trophies. It is also about respect, solidarity, and teamwork. These values become even more powerful when you see people who, despite obstacles, continue to compete passionately, to dream, and to claim the place they deserve in society.
