On the 31st of January 2014, the General Director of “Zaporizhstal” JSC, Rostyslav Shurma, met with the Vice-President of the European Athletic Association (EAA), Karel Pilny, along with the President of the Federation of Athletics of Ukraine (FAU), Igor Gotsul, and leading athletes at the athletic training complex “Metallurg”.
The development of physical training and sport is a priority of “Zaporizhstal” JSC's social policy, which is implemented as part of Metinvest Group's social activities. During the meeting, the totals and prospects of collaboration under the Memorandum executed between “Zaporizhstal” Integrated Iron and Steel Works and FAU, signed in 2013, were discussed. According to the Memorandum, in 2013, the plant donated 8.5 million UAH for sports development, which included 3.5 million UAH for the reconstruction of the athletic training complex. FAU supplied the sport complex with modern field and track equipment for running and high jumping valued at 274 thousand UAH.
«The athletic training complex is the leading sports center not only in the Zaporizhye region but also in other parts of Ukraine. In 2014, we will continue investments for the reconstruction of the Sport Complex, which will serve as a firm basis for our sportsmen's victories at national and international competitions,» said the General Director of the “Zaporizhstal” Integrated Iron and Steel Works, Rostyslav Shurma.
In 2014, “Zaporizhstal” Integrated Iron and Steel Works will allocate 12.8 million UAH for sports development, including 2.2 million UAH for further reconstruction of the athletic training complex, installation of independent heat supply, photo finish system, reconstruction of internal lighting, acoustic system, and running track marking.
“I am glad that we are talking about sport today. Sport represents peace, the health of the nation, and the future. I am doubly pleased that such a large industrial giant as ‘Zaporizhstal’ is not only a leader of Ukrainian industry but also a leader in social responsibility,” emphasized Karel Pilny, Vice-President of the European Athletic Association.
“Zaporizhstal” motivates people to engage in sports, develops sports organizations, creates a competitive spirit concerning social responsibility among the regions of Ukraine, and serves as a stimulus for sporting achievements,” stated Igor Gotsul, President of FAU.
It is worth noting that “Zaporizhstal” Integrated Iron and Steel Works regularly supports sports organizations in the region. On a gratuitous basis, it provides the sport complex for the Children and Youth Sports School of Olympic Reserve for track and field, as well as for disabled athletes from “Invasport.” In 2013, about 850 thousand UAH were directed for these purposes.