SMS National TCs Overview

The “Strong Mind for Success” (#SMS) initiative, funded by Erasmus+, aimed to address mental health challenges in young football players. The national training courses held in Bulgaria, Italy, and Slovenia provided crucial insights, practical strategies, and a platform for youth athletes to enhance their mental well-being and professional development.

Below are detailed reports on the training courses conducted in these countries, highlighting the key activities and outcomes of each event.

National Training Course in Bulgaria

The Strong Mind for Success (#SMS) National Training Workshop took place in Sofia, Bulgaria, from February 20 to 21, 2024. This event provided youth athletes with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of mental health and offered a platform for future networking and activities. The training included lectures and workshops, focusing on a holistic approach to mental health in sports.

Key presentations and expert insights included:

Mindset of a Champion: Delivered by Assoc. Prof. Kornelia Naydenova, PhD, focusing on the psychological and mental aspects essential for young athletes.
Emotional Health in Football: By Valentina Gospodinova, who discussed the emotional challenges footballers face.
Motivational Tools for Young Footballers: Presented by Ivaylo Zdravkov, PhD, providing strategies to cope with mental health challenges.

The workshop effectively combined theoretical knowledge with practical sessions, ensuring participants left with actionable insights to improve their mental health and overall sporting performance.

National Training Course in Italy

The Italian edition of the #SMS National Training Course was held at the Polisportiva ‘Airoldi’ Origgio in Varese, divided into two comprehensive days. The event opened with a welcoming session by the ‘Airoldi’ women’s football team, fostering an inclusive and comfortable environment for discussing mental health in sports.

Day 1 highlights:

Hands-on Workshops: Practical activities led by team coaches, helping participants identify and understand mental health challenges in football.
Champion Mentality: Focused on the importance of mental well-being for athletic development.
Group Work and Football Practice: Encouraging collaboration and inclusivity in sports.

Day 2 highlights:

#SMS Project Presentation: Reviewing the goals, objectives, and achievements of the project.
Research Presentation and Interactive Quiz: Participants explored the main results of the #SMS research and engaged in a quiz to test their knowledge.
Emotional Narratives and Workshops: Sharing personal experiences and consolidating skills through continuous workshops.

The course concluded with evaluations, certification, and the distribution of the #SMS toolbox, equipping participants with tools to tackle mental health challenges in their sports environments.

National Training Course in Slovenia

On February 15, 2024, the town of Ajdovščina, Slovenia, became the hub for advancing mental health in sports through a pivotal event hosted by Sport Club Endorfin. The training featured a significant lecture by Uroš Perko, the esteemed author of “Mental Disorders in Sport,” focusing on the mental health challenges athletes face.

In collaboration with ND Primorje Ajdovščina, the workshop welcomed 30 participants and explored:

Causes and Consequences of Mental Health Challenges: Delving into familial ties, childhood experiences, and sports-related pressures.
Integration of Resources: Advocating for the incorporation of additional resources and practices within sports organizations to foster a supportive environment.

The event underscored the necessity of addressing mental health complexities in athletes and marked a significant step toward holistic athlete development in Slovenia.

The national training courses conducted under the #SMS initiative have significantly contributed to raising awareness and providing practical solutions for mental health challenges in young football players. These events have equipped participants with the necessary knowledge, tools, and support systems to promote mental well-being in their sporting communities. The #SMS initiative continues to pave the way for a healthier, more inclusive sports environment across Europe.

Check out the video of the national trainings Strong Mind for Success: