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with the Games. In addition, there should be a conscious effort to inform
Olympic Athletes and foreign visitors to the Games of the history of the
Ancient Olympic Games. This could be done using the following means;
the media, films projections in the Olympic Village, special presentations
to the public, organised visits of spectators to ancient sites, use of logos
and other symbols inspired by ancient themes, etc.
• In addition, incorporating cultural activities from all continents
could enhance the cultural dimension of the 2004 Games. Such an
attempt would be fully in keeping with the Olympic Ideals of unity
and universality.
Question 14: How can the Games on Athens 2004 use Olympic athletes
to educate the general public on Olympism?
Before Athens 2004 start using Olympic Athletes and their experience to
educate the general public on Olympism, they must first ensure that the athletes
chosen for this purpose actually have an understanding of Olympism themselves.
If they do not, they should first be educated at a session such as this one.
Although medallists always get more press coverage, Athens should name
and use all Olympic and Paralympic Athletes as "ambassadors". Former athletes
could also be used because they have less commitment to training and the risk
of tarnished records may be less. In addition the top athletes should be educated
to understand that they can serve as role models and should so voluntary.
Only one group felt that the athletes are not the appropriate ones to educate or
deliver these programs but they must be supportive of them.
Olympic Education programs are already in place to inform children about
Olympism but a different approach should be taken when educating the general
public.
Practical methods where Olympians could insist in implementation are:
• School visits and youth sport camps where they could coach and
share their experiences as a way of inspiring the children so to promote
many issues including, the Olympic Ideals and a healthy lifestyle.
• Participate in sporting activities, appearances in the media, conferences,
meetings, educational videos and chat rooms on the Internet and
informative videos.
• Assist in advertising campaigns designed to give people an introduction
to Olympism with details of further sources of information being made
available.
• Brief TV slots (5 min. before/after the news) could be used for messages
conveying the principles/ideals of the Olympic Movement.
• Sharing experiences about athletes, teams and the Games (ideals, history,
buildup) at regional levels.
• Organising events such as the IOA with well-known Greek
Athletes.
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