I have and most likely would have never known this until today. Turkey is one of the only countries in the world that has an article in their constitution stipulating that “The State” should take measures to “develop the physical and mental health of Turkish citizens of all ages and encourages the spread of sports among the masses. The State protects successful athletes.”
Mass support for athletics is encouraged since it is considered to be a key component to creating a functioning society. The State (Turkey) gives and offers grants to increase the amount of athletes in house. This increases the competition for world sporting events. For example, out of 2,574 sports facilities only 261 belong to the private sector….Just showing how important increasing athletic ability is in Turkey.
The heart of this organization is the Directorate General of Youth and Sports. This position was established in 1938 and has a total of 6,499 personnel working under him/her. Over 37 sport “federations” are within this and they range from, basketball to Chess to Archery. With over 231 medals, this sports branch gained the most recognition on an international level in wrestling.
Galatasaray, was the premier soccer club in Turkey and went on to win the UEFA championship in the 1999-2000 season. This was a major win for Turkey and it allowed them to have a team to compete with western Europeans. It also signified that the Directorate General of Youth and Sports was able to successfully accomplish his job.
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