by Alfonz Juck
Svein Arne Hansen, courtesy of European Athletics
European calendar to be restructured
MINSK (BLR): Work is underway on restructuring the competition calendar in order to create a clear and compelling narrative in the qualifying process for the European Championships, said European Athletics President Svein Arne Hansen at the European Athletics CEO Conference in Minsk, Belarus. Hansen hopes to have the changes approved by the European Athletics Council in time for qualification to the 2018 European Championships in Berlin. “Rebuilding the value of our brand calls for positive stories that grab the attention of our fans and the public. Innovation linked to our major events and other competitions will do just that,” said Hansen. This edition of the CEO Conference Hansen called the “best ever”. Participants representing 50 Member Federations heard several top speakers addressing issues around brand and brand building such as product development, governance, communications and social media strategy. After outlining the first steps he has taken to restore trust following the doping and corruption scandals that have rocked the IAAF, President Sebastian Coe said a package of reform proposals is currently being prepared for consultation and votes by the IAAF Member Federations, possibly at a Special Congress later this year. Coe also spoke about the need for the IAAF to be proactive in helping clubs and other grassroots organisations to impart the history and values of athletics to youngsters to give them the foundation for making good decisions as a part of the overall fight against doping.
