Youth Sports Meetings II: Using sport as a tool for inclusion in Croatia
Eurochild member "Croatia for Children" Foundation held the second Youth Sports Meetings in Omiš, bringing together 130 children and staff from 13 residential care settings across Croatia, in partnership with the Maestral Community Services Centre.
The Foundation, which is established and funded by the Government of the Republic of Croatia, recognised the children's need for opportunities to connect with their peers through sports gatherings. Following the success of the first Youth Sports Meetings held in Lipik in 2024, the winning football team from the Centre for Community Services Maestral took on and successfully fulfilled the role of host.
The main objectives of the event were:
- to highlight the importance of sport and regular physical activity;
- to promote sport and healthy lifestyle goals;
- to connect children without adequate parental care from across Croatia;
- to encourage positive sportsmanship to enhance the overall well-being of this vulnerable group;
- to support socialisation and bonding among peers with shared interests;
- to strengthen their self-confidence; and to foster empathy and a supportive atmosphere in their interactions.
The competitions held in Omiš featured football and volleyball, with professional referees ensuring fair play. The event was opened with a live performance of the national anthem and a welcome address by Olympic handball player Drago Vuković. The atmosphere was further enriched by a concert featuring local music stars on the first evening.
The Youth Sports Meetings concluded with an organised visit to Poljud Stadium and the main landmarks of Split, offering the children additional cultural and shared experiences. The best teams, as well as the host centre Maestral, were awarded a trip to the Gardaland amusement park as special recognition. The trip for the 24 children took place in June, where they enjoyed spending time with their peers and experiencing numerous adrenaline-filled attractions during their visit to Italy. Youth Sports Meetings II were covered by national and regional media, further highlighting the value of sport as a tool for inclusion and well-being for vulnerable groups.
Further information
