Panionios Coach Yunus Öçal says sports are building a bridge between Türkiye and Greece
Yunus Öçal, head coach of the women’s volleyball team of Panionios G.S.S., says the growing exchange of athletes and coaches between Türkiye and Greece is helping strengthen cultural ties and mutual understanding between the two neighboring countries.
Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Öçal described sports as a universal language capable of creating lasting connections across borders.
“We Feel Like We Are Building a Bridge”
Öçal, who joined the Athens-based Greek club in February, said his move to Panionios happened quickly following discussions with his family.
“I spoke with my wife and immediately decided to come. Everything happened within three or four days,” he said.
The Turkish coach highlighted the warm welcome he received from supporters in Nea Smyrni, a district historically associated with refugees from İzmir and Anatolia.
“Many people here originally came from Türkiye. They welcomed me sincerely and warmly,” Öçal said, adding that his previous coaching experience with the Greek national team and AEK Athens also helped ease his transition.
Describing the atmosphere around the club, Öçal compared the passionate support of Panionios fans to the intense sporting culture seen in Türkiye years ago.
“The support is incredible. Even if you are not originally from here, you inevitably feel part of this environment,” he said.
Sports Diplomacy Between Türkiye and Greece
Öçal emphasized that the movement of athletes and coaches between the two countries represents more than professional cooperation.
“I call it strengthening cultural unity through sports because, in reality, we are not very different,” he said.
“Sport is a universal language, and culturally we are very close people. These exchanges create a connection and a bridge between us.”
The coach also revealed that Panionios will appoint another Turkish assistant coach next season, describing the decision as a sign of trust from the club management.
“We are happy to see these transitions happen. This is the unifying power of sports,” he added.
Ambitious Plans for Panionios
Looking ahead to next season, Öçal said Panionios plans to compete in four separate competitions and has assembled a squad with major ambitions.
“A serious-budget team has been built with high-level players and strong technical staff additions,” he said.
The Turkish coach stated that the club’s objective will be to challenge for trophies across all competitions.
“We believe we have built a very ambitious team. I’m extremely happy to be part of this exciting project,” Öçal said.
He also praised the development potential of Greek women’s volleyball, noting that Greece possesses talented players but needs more systematic long-term planning to compete consistently at the highest international level.
