POLAND: Coaches for socio-sports school with Ukrainian refugees receive training
School part of Real Madrid Foundation project
(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with Don Bosco Elk, located in the city of Elk, Poland, have been operating a socio-sports school since 2023, thanks to a partnership with Real Madrid Foundation and the Salesian Mission Office in Madrid. More than 180 youth, most who are refugees aged 5-17 from Ukraine, participate in the socio-sports school. Coaches for the school recently received on-site training under the methodology “For a Real Education: Values and Sport.”
A Real Madrid Foundation article about the training explained, “The soccer, basketball and values training sessions were delivered to 14 participants, including more experienced coaches along with other newcomers. The course focused on enhancing their knowledge of the foundation’s methodology and improving their skills.”
Salesian staff put their new skills into practice with youth, including six girls who had recently joined the basketball team.
The Don Bosco Elk sports school has had a positive impact on the youth. As youth take part in soccer and basketball, they also receive training in topics like healthy habits, healthy eating and civic values. Salesians also offer psychological support, food support and legal assistance.
The socio-sports activities help youth integrate into their school. Both the Real Madrid Foundation and Salesians are aware that sports are important for social integration and the promotion of values like teamwork, communication, respect and team spirit.
The partnership between the Salesian Mission Office in Madrid and the Real Madrid Foundation began in 2010 in a Salesian school in Senegal. Today, the collaboration has 22 projects in 15 countries and serves nearly 4,000 children and youth each season, using educational sport and its values as a catalyst for the social betterment of youth and communities.
As part of the Real Madrid Foundation’s program, participants receive nutrition, family and psychological support, regular health checkups, the opportunity to participate in social and educational workshops, gymnastics, crafts, reading, and citizenship activities. Training sessions on topics such as health, hygiene, values, and the prevention of alcohol, tobacco, and drug abuse are also provided.
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Sources:
ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)
Real Madrid Foundation – Training for coaches at Foundation’s school in Poland
