Para Sports Association of the City of Rijeka presents HOORAY project at the Elementary School Vezica in Rijeka, Croatia
On November 27, 2024, the Croatian partner of the HOORAY project, the Para Sports Association of the City of Rijeka, hosted a multiplier event at Elementary School Vežica in Rijeka, Croatia.
The event aimed to showcase the goals and deliverables of the HOORAY project, including recent research findings, a guide for supporting youth mental health through physical activity, and an online knowledge hub.
Participants included teachers, coaches, representatives from local youth organizations, and 76 children aged 10 to 14, both with and without disabilities. The diverse audience fostered meaningful discussions and a valuable exchange of ideas.
Presentations and materials
During the workshop session, the following key materials were presented:
- HOORAY project overview: Introduction to the project’s objectives, research, and key findings.
- Project deliverables: Participants were presented with Deliverables 1 and 2, which focus on promoting physical activity for improving youth mental health.
- Guide for supporting mental health through physical activity: The guide was presented and discussed.
- Online knowledge hub: This resource was introduced as a central platform for accessing materials, tools, and best practices related to mental health and sports.
The workshop session, which was led by Paralympian Antonio Franko, focused on the connection between mental health and physical activity, emphasising how sports can have a positive impact on young people’s emotional well-being, if the atmosphere is positive and motivating.
Key points from the discussion:
- Positive impact of sports: Participants acknowledged the key findings of the HOORAY project, particularly how sports help reduce stress, increase happiness, and foster social connections among youth.
- Role of coaches and teachers: It was emphasised that adults play a vital role in creating inclusive and supportive environments in sports settings. Participants discussed practical strategies for fostering positive relationships between young athletes, coaches, and parents.
- Inclusivity in sports: There was a strong consensus on the importance of making sports programs accessible to all young people, regardless of skill level or physical ability.
The multiplier event successfully achieved its objectives, providing participants with valuable insights into the HOORAY project and its deliverables. The workshop with Paralympian Antonio Franko was particularly praised for being engaging and inspiring. Many participants expressed interest in applying the knowledge from the HOORAY project to their local contexts, particularly in schools and community sports programs.
Going forward, PSA CR plans to organise additional dissemination activities in future events and continue raising awareness about the connection between physical activity and mental health in youth.