Jari Litmanen visiting SOS Children's Village Tapiola - Photo: SOS Archives
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Finnish soccer hero Jari Litmanen was officially appointed Finland's new FIFA for SOS Children's Villages Ambassador on 11 October 2002. Young football fan Jere and his sister Mira from SOS Children's Village Tapiola and Olli Latola, board member of SOS Children's Villages Finland, presented the star with his official certificate at a press conference held before the Finland-Azerbaijan Euro 2004 qualifier.
"Football is fun and with Jari it's real fun," said Jere. The children from SOS Children's Villages Tapiola carried the FIFA flag and escorted the national team players to the opening ceremony of the match, which took place the following day. The Finnish football association has been an active supporter of SOS Children's Villages Finland for years and the national team are regular visitors at SOS Children's Village Tapiola.