A recap of the Nobody Offside project meeting in Warsaw

A recap of the Nobody Offside project meeting in Warsaw

From the 18th to the 20th of August, the Nobody Offside project partners were brought together and the initiative took another step towards promoting disability-inclusive football. The meeting, held in Warsaw in the EAFF office and adjacent training facilities of Legia Warsaw, showcased the commitment of various organizations and individuals involved in the project, namely Club Brugge Foundation, KNVB, Fundación Real Betis Balompié, the Romanian FA and EFDN. With a focus on fostering an inclusive environment for amputee football, the meeting encompassed a series of insightful activities.

Study Visit

The event kicked off with a study visit to the EAFF Junior Camp. Participants had the opportunity to acquaint themselves with the logistics and intricacies of the event, which serves as a blueprint for the upcoming Nobody Offside Junior Camp. The training venue buzzed with activities tailored to different age groups and positions, enabling partners to immerse themselves in the players’ experiences.

Project Meeting

During the afternoon session, project partners engaged in discussions vital to the Nobody Offside project’s success. A comprehensive review of project elements, from goals to methodologies, shed light on the progress made since March 2023. Partners highlighted challenges, such as the age limit barrier and participant numbers, underscoring the importance of attracting a diverse range of participants.

Flexibility was encouraged as partners designed their workshops, including socialization activities with non-disabled school participants. A recurring theme was the significance of accurate reporting to ensure project success within budget constraints. Deliberations included activity overviews, deliverables, and even plans for future events like the junior summer camp for 2024.

Referee Training

Amidst these discussions, a crucial facet of the Nobody Offside initiative took center stage—referee training for amputee football. Participants delved into the nuances of the sport, learning key rules such as the 7-a-side format and the unique role of referees. Insights gathered during this session will contribute to a broader effort to educate future amputee football referees.

Further Study

The event concluded with a second study visit to the Junior Camp training. This session provided an opportunity to observe amputee football from a competitive perspective. Partners seized the chance to interact with experts, players, and coaches, setting the stage for collaboration and future endeavours.

Looking Ahead

The Nobody Offside initiative continues to pave the way for inclusive sports experiences. The meeting underscored the dedication of partners to create meaningful change within the world of amputee football. As the project moves forward, the emphasis remains on breaking barriers, building connections, and fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy the beautiful game.
Stay tuned for more updates as the journey towards a more inclusive future in football unfolds.