The 33rd International Congress on Physical Education and Sport Science of the Democritus University of Thrace was successfully completed, bringing together more than 1,000 delegates from 11 countries and featuring 340 scientific presentations, 11 round tables, and 16 theoretical and practical seminars. With its central theme “Innovation in Sports Technology and Science,” this year’s event enriched its program with a variety of parallel activities — from festivals and book presentations to online broadcasts and the introduction of remote scientific presentations. During the Opening Ceremony, distinguished figures of Greek sports were honored, including Evina Maltsi, Maria Prevolaraki, and Tasoula Kelesidou, who also served as the Keynote Speaker. The congress also hosted the 24th Meeting of the Internship Offices of the Student Support Units (M.Y.F.), contributing to the exchange of best practices among academic institutions. The event concluded on a high note with the Closing Ceremony and the Graduation of the Department’s Postgraduate Programs.
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Keynote Speecher
Anastasia (Tasoula) Kelesidou
Title of the Keynote Speech: Women in Sports: Challenges and Opportunities
Anastasia Kelesidou is one of Greece’s top female discus throwers. She became the first Greek woman to surpass 60 meters in the discus throw (1994), and in 1999 she won her first major medal: a silver at the World Championships in Seville. This was followed by two consecutive silver medals at the Olympic Games (Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004), while in total she won medals in six major competitions (World and European Championships).
Her career was marked by consistency and a continuous presence at the top level, with a personal best of 67.70 meters (1999). After completing her distinguished athletic career, Tasoula Kelesidou continues to serve the sport in administrative roles and is currently a member of the Board of Directors of SEGAS and the federation’s representative at the plenary of the Hellenic Olympic Committee.
“Nikos Samaras” Award
The Organizing Committee is awarding this year’s “Nikos Samaras” prize to Evina Maltsi for her overall contribution to the field of sports.
Evina Maltsi, an exceptional athlete and person, has emerged as one of the greatest figures in Greek basketball history and one of the top Greek female players of all time. Throughout her impressive career, she represented the Greek Women’s National Team for 20 years, holding the record for most points scored (3,215) and most appearances (214).
The awarding of Evina Maltsi with the Nikos Samaras Prize at the 33rd International Congress on Physical Education & Sport Science reflects not only her athletic achievements but also the significant role she has played in raising awareness and educating on an issue that concerns everyone—gender-based violence.
The Organizing Committee is awarding this year’s “Nikos Samaras” prize to Evina Maltsi for her overall contribution to the field of sports.
Evina Maltsi, an exceptional athlete and person, has emerged as one of the greatest figures in Greek basketball history and one of the top Greek female players of all time. Throughout her impressive career, she represented the Greek Women’s National Team for 20 years, holding the record for most points scored (3,215) and most appearances (214).
The awarding of Evina Maltsi with the Nikos Samaras Prize at the 33rd International Congress on Physical Education & Sport Science reflects not only her athletic achievements but also the significant role she has played in raising awareness and educating on an issue that concerns everyone—gender-based violence.