In an effort to promote social inclusion and strengthen European values, the Erasmus+ project TEAM-EU-UA (Development of Team Spirit for the Implementation and Incorporation of EU Values in Ukraine) has officially launched. This ambitious initiative is designed to foster cooperation between the European Union and Ukraine, using sports as a catalyst for integration, education, and reconciliation.

About the Project

The TEAM-EU-UA project is a three-year endeavor, beginning in November 2024, and is funded
by the European Union under the ERASMUS-SPORT-2024-CB program.
Led by YOUTH. SCIENCE. SPORTS. HEALTHY MOVEMENT OF UKRAINE, the project unites multiple partner organizations, including the European School Sport Federation (ESSF), to create sustainable opportunities for young people in sports and education.

Objectives and Key Activities

The main goal of the project is to promote team spirit and European values—such as equality, democracy, and respect for human rights—by engaging young people in sports and physical activities. The initiative specifically focuses on supporting schoolchildren, including displaced and migrant children, as well as those with special educational needs.

Key activities include:

• Building a Network of Sports and Educational Organizations: The project fosters collaboration between EU and Ukrainian institutions to exchange best practices in youth sports development.
• Social Integration Through Sports: By organizing inclusive sports events, the project aims to strengthen the sense of identity and belonging among young people in Ukraine and the EU.
• Gender Equality in Sports: Activities and programs are designed to ensure equal participation opportunities for both boys and girls.
• Innovative Training for Coaches and Educators: The project provides non-formal education and training for physical education teachers and sports coaches to equip them with new methodologies and skills.
• Environmental Awareness Through Sports: By integrating eco-friendly initiatives into sports events, the project highlights the importance of sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Impact and Long-Term Vision

The TEAM-EU-UA project aims to directly impact over 1,160 participants, including students, educators, athletes, and policymakers. Through workshops, seminars, training sessions, and sporting events, the initiative will not only improve access to sports but also serve as a platform for intercultural dialogue and post-conflict reconciliation.
By the end of the project, the consortium plans to establish long-term educational programs, scientific publications, and digital resources that will continue to benefit future generations.
Additionally, the project will contribute to the broader dissemination of EU sports policies and values, reinforcing Ukraine’s connection to the European community.

ESSF’s Role in the Project

As a key partner, the European School Sport Federation (ESSF) is committed to promoting sports as a tool for education and social change. Through its involvement in the TEAM-EU-UA project, ESSF supports the creation of inclusive sports initiatives that align with European values and provide young people with opportunities for personal and athletic growth.
Stay tuned for more updates on the progress of TEAM-EU-UA as we continue to build bridges through sports!