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Hellenic Federation of Sports Coaches and Trainers
Press Release — 2 June 2025
POPA Establishes Strategic Partnerships for Sport
The Hellenic Federation of Sports Coaches and Trainers (POPA) has held a series of important meetings and signed cooperation agreements, opening a new chapter in the development and support of Greek sport.
The POPA delegation, comprising President Mr Athanasios D. Villiotis, Vice President Mr Giorgos Arachovitis and Treasurer Mr Filippos Oikonomou, met with the President of OAKA and the Director of the National Centre for Sports Research, Mr Giorgos Sourvinos. During the meeting, a cooperation agreement was signed focusing on scientific research in sport, support for athletes and coaches through specialist programmes, and joint action for lifelong coach education. This partnership is expected to strengthen coaches’ expertise and effectiveness, contributing to athletes’ progress.
The delegation then met with the President of the Hellenic Red Cross, Dr Antonios Avgerinos. The two sides agreed to cooperate in providing coaches with both general and sport-specific first aid training. The initiative aims to improve safety at sports venues and equip coaches to respond promptly to emergencies.
Finally, the delegation met with the President of the Hellenic Olympic Committee (HOC), Mr Isidoros Kouvelos, and HOC Secretary General Mr Stefanos Chandakas. They discussed matters of common interest concerning the development of sport in Greece and explored potential cooperation to advance the interests of Greek sport.
All three organisations were also invited to participate in the upcoming 15th Global Coach Conference, organised by POPA and the International Council for Coaching Excellence (ICCE) at the Eugenides Foundation on 20–23 November 2025.
These cooperation agreements are an important step towards raising standards in Greek sport. The partnership with OAKA and the National Centre for Sports Research will enable POPA to offer coaches and athletes the latest scientific support. Cooperation with the Hellenic Red Cross is vital for everyone’s safety at sports venues, while the meeting with the Hellenic Olympic Committee opens new opportunities for joint action to promote sport.
POPA remains committed to continuing its efforts to provide meaningful support for coaches and Greek sport more broadly.
