THE MOCLÍN SPORTS THERAPY EXPERIENCE
On the 28th of September 2024, young people from Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Germany, Romania, Lithuania, and Poland united in a transformative Erasmus Plus training program aimed at exploring the connection between sports and social inclusion. Hosted by the “High On Life” organization, the project titled „What Is Sport & Social Inclusion: How They Can Be Connected” provided participants with practical tools and methodologies to understand how sports can foster social cohesion and mindfulness. The goal of the initiative was to show how sports can bridge differences, promote teamwork, and improve both personal and collective well-being, ultimately creating more inclusive and connected communities.
Throughout the project, we took part in a series of dynamic activities that encouraged interaction, cultural exchange and the development of teamwork skills. From icebreakers that helped us get to know each other to team-building exercises that strengthened our collaboration, these activities laid the foundation for the work ahead. We also engaged in a creative citywide challenge, where we explored the local area and completed tasks together, strengthening our understanding of cooperation and problem-solving.
The main task of this project is to understand the importance of sports in promoting tolerance and inclusion. We learnt how sports can be used as a tool for social inclusion, breaking down barriers between people of different backgrounds and fostering a sense of unity. These theoretical sessions were complemented by practical experiences, such as playing sports in the open air, where we put the principles of inclusion into practice. Whether it was on a football field, the physical activities demonstrated how teamwork and collaboration can transcend language and cultural differences.
The project also included evenings dedicated to intercultural exchange, where each country represented shared its traditions, food, and stories. These intercultural evenings provided a deeper understanding of the participants’ diverse cultural backgrounds and highlighted the value of respect and openness in a global society. Another significant aspect of the experience was a hike through the beautiful natural landscapes surrounding Granada, during which we also took part in an environmental cleanup. This activity not only allowed us to connect with nature but also raised awareness of climate change and the importance of environmental responsibility.
One of the key outcomes of the project was the creation of a guidebook on sports therapy, which we developed as a group. This guidebook provides a step-by-step approach to using sports for both mental and physical well-being, with a focus on inclusion. It offers insights into how sports can be used not only to promote health but also to build more inclusive communities.
Here the link: GUIDEBOOK
Our time in the Erasmus Plus project taught us valuable lessons about the power of sports as a tool for therapy and social inclusion. We learned how to work together toward common goals and objectives, communicate effectively across cultural differences, and manage emotions during the project’s activities. The experience also deepened our understanding of Spanish culture, as we explored the city of Granada and interacted with its people.
In the future, we plan to use the skills and knowledge gained from this project to continue spreading the message of Erasmus+ among our friends and on social media. We hope to raise awareness about the importance of sports not only for physical fitness but also for building inclusive communities. The project left a lasting impact on all of us, and we look forward to participating in more Erasmus+ projects, continuing to learn, grow, and connect with others through initiatives that promote inclusion, tolerance, and social well-being.
In conclusion, our experience in the Erasmus + Project „Sports Therapy” was both educational and inspiring. It reinforced our belief in the positive impact that sports can have on individuals and communities. We are eager to carry forward the lessons we learned and remain enthusiastic about participating in future Erasmus+ projects.
