The region on the move: Tés, the exemplary village
There are only a few days left to submit applications for the Veszprém-Balaton European Region of Sport 2026 program. One of the goals of the program is to bring the joy of movement and the community experience to every nook and corner of the region so that even the smallest villages are filled with sporting life. And Tés is leading the way in this.
The settlement in the Bakony is an excellent example of how sport can become the driving force of village life. They have been consciously building mass sports for years, and they are using the current opportunity to take it to new levels.
István János Fodor-Bödös, mayor of Tés, sees the power of sport to bring people together as follows:
"A sporty lifestyle is good for the residents of the settlement, because it has allowed us to form new bonds and create many new communities. Whether it's spinning enthusiasts, karate practitioners, table tennis players or gym-goers, they all form a micro-community that has added something extra to village life."
The mayor added that they plan to expand the existing Tés Mass Sports Club through a Region of Sport bid. Their plans include a Nordic walking team, a running club, and even nature lovers have joined the initiative. As he put it: "If there is demand, space, and resources, we will naturally support it." Why is it worthwhile for small towns to get involved?
The example of Tés also proves that sport is not only about health, but also about strengthening local identity. Through these programs, small towns can:
• Fill their public spaces with content.
• Provide free exercise opportunities for all age groups.
• They can appeal to groups with special interests (e.g., nature lovers, runners).