Today in Zenica, at the 7th Kids Rugby Fest, as part of the European Week of Sport and the #BeActive campaign implemented through the project "EU4Youth – European Week of Sport Beyond Borders in the Western Balkans," financed by the European Commission via the IPA program, and organized by the Olympic Committee of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Ministry of Family, Youth, and Sports of the Republika Srpska, with coordination from the Ministry of Civil Affairs of BiH, participants from Slovenia, Montenegro, Serbia, Italy, Azerbaijan, and Bosnia and Herzegovina gathered, turning the rugby field into an epicenter of positive energy, sporting spirit, and unity.

At the Kamberovića Polje Athletics Stadium, in the presence of numerous young athletes, parents, and citizens of Zenica, the 7th Kids Rugby Fest was officially opened with a message that sport knows no borders or differences – it unites, fosters community, inspires, and promotes a healthy spirit and body.

"I congratulate the Čelik Zenica Rugby Club, the Bosnia and Herzegovina Rugby Federation, and the Bosnia and Herzegovina Olympic Committee on excellent organization. Welcome to Zenica, the city of youth and sport. I wish all competitors to enjoy the competition in the spirit of sport,” said Fuad Kasumović, the mayor of Zenica.

On behalf of the organizers, Dr. Mirza Oruč, vice president of the Bosnia and Herzegovina Rugby Federation, addressed the audience and thanked the participants and everyone who supported this competition and the promotion of physical activity through the Olympic sport of rugby. He emphasized the importance of the #BeActive campaign and the European Week of Sport, which takes place all 365 days of the year and reminds us of the values of engaging in sports for both young and old.

Tournament director Haris Topalović expressed gratitude to the City of Zenica and all institutions for their support, highlighting that Kids Rugby Fest, besides competition, also includes a series of social activities involving parents, which further strengthens the messages of the #BeActive campaign and the European Week of Sport in BiH.

“This two-day tournament promotes activity and sport; we have given our best and are here to support sport and enjoy rugby. Today from Zenica, we send a message of sporting spirit, unity, and the values of the #BeActive campaign, which travels through many European cities,” Topalović stated.

The European Week of Sport is traditionally held from September 23 to 30 across Europe. This year in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it includes numerous events held from March to October, featuring various sports manifestations and disciplines across seven cities.