Three-decade span encompassing athletics, academics, and social engagements
The Community Sports Experience (GES) program, a long-standing initiative that bridges sports, school, and social interaction, celebrated its 30th anniversary at Stuttgart Town Hall's large meeting hall on Monday evening.
The event was graced by the presence of notable figures such as Wolfgang Schuster, the former mayor and initiator of GES, Muhterem Aras, President of the State Parliament, Theresa Schopper, Minister of Culture of the state, Fred-Jürgen Stradinger, President of the Stuttgart Sports Circle e.V., and Dr. Clemens Maier, Mayor of Stuttgart.
These dignitaries, along with numerous other supporters and role models, were acknowledged and thanked for their contributions to GES over the years through their participation. The speakers at the celebration praised the work of GES over the past three decades, highlighting its integrative effect that goes beyond sports.
GES is currently in excellent shape and considered a success story. The program provides spaces for participation regardless of origin, performance level, or financial means, fostering a sense of unity and inclusion.
Prof. Dr. Mone Welscher from the Catholic University of Freiburg provided a scientific perspective on the social significance of movement, play, and sports, further emphasizing the importance of GES.
The celebration concluded with a short joint sports unit for participants, reinforcing the program's core values. For more information about the event, a photo can be found on STUGGI.TV, and a video of Stuttgart Surge celebrating their victory in the ELF is available at stuttgarter-zeitung.de.
GES was initiated thirty years ago with the purpose of viewing sports as a pedagogical tool that transcends performance and grades. The program continues to be a beacon of community engagement and social development, making it a true success story.
