MindPlay

MindPlay - Fostering wellness through sport

Project duration

1.11.2024 – 28.2.2026

Call, programme, LOT

Erasmus+ Programme, Sport Small-scale Partnerships

Country(es)

North Macedonia, Belgium, Serbia

Value of the project

60000

Partners

FC Viner, Interkultura, Connect International, PSD Strazilovo, Camping Association of Serbia

Description for general use

Mindplay project is implemented under Erasmus+ Programme, Sport Small-scale Partnerships and it aimed to enhance the holistic well-being and performance of young athletes by integrating mindfulness practices into everyday sports programs. Recognizing the growing importance of mental health in youth development, the project focused on equipping sports workers with practical tools to help children and young people reduce stress, build emotional resilience, and foster a more positive and supportive sports culture. At the core of the initiative was the design and development of a specialized training curriculum for sports clubs and coaches, offering clear guidance on how to incorporate mindfulness techniques into their training routines. This curriculum was co-created through transnational, cross-sectoral collaboration among partner organizations. In parallel, the project produced a Mindplay Guide for Individuals—a practical tool designed for young athletes who are self-organized or not part of formal clubs. Based on the main curriculum but adapted for personal use, the guide provided step-by-step instructions for incorporating mindfulness into solo sports practice. To put theory into action, a 5-day training program was implemented for sports club staff, allowing them to experience and apply the Mindplay curriculum in practice. Following this, pilot activities took place in sports clubs in Serbia and North Macedonia, testing and refining the training tools based on real-world feedback.
All resources and outcomes were made accessible through the Mindplay project webpage, which features:
-The downloadable Mindplay Guide for Individuals,
-The comprehensive Mindplay Training Curriculum, and
-A Sharing Point—a dedicated space for partners to exchange ideas, updates, and initiatives.
Through Mindplay, a new model of mindful sports practice emerged, contributing to a healthier, more inclusive, and mentally resilient generation of young athletes.

Project Result 1

MindPlay Training Curriculum
A 5-module curriculum was developed to equip sports club staff and coaches with the skills to integrate mindfulness into their training sessions. The modules include:
-Introduction to Non-Formal Education (NFE) methods
-Understanding the origin of mindfulness and stress psychology
-Insights on how mindfulness influences performance and health
-Step-by-step guidance for applying mindfulness techniques (breathing, relaxation, meditation) in sports
-Practical examples and tips for implementation in real-life sport environments

Type: Curriculum / Training – Mindfulness Integration in Sports

Project Result 2

MindPlay Guide for Individuals
A practical manual designed to help young individuals apply mindfulness techniques in their everyday sports routines. The guide includes simplified explanations, practical exercises, and daily routines aimed at reducing stress and improving performance. It will be available free of charge on the project website, in English, Macedonian, and Serbian.

Type: Educational Material – Self-Guided Mindfulness Handbook

Project Result 3

MindPlay Interactive Web Platform
A dynamic online platform created to:
-Host all project results (curriculum, guide, tools)
-Act as the main channel for communication and dissemination
-Serve as a collaborative space where sports clubs, youth organisations, and individuals can contribute and co-develop new ideas
-The platform fosters long-term impact by encouraging the continuous exchange of knowledge and best practices.

Type: Digital Platform – Resource Hub & Community Space

MindPlay - Fostering wellness through sport

Project duration

1.11.2024 – 28.2.2026

Call, programme, LOT

Erasmus+ Programme, Sport Small-scale Partnerships

Country(es)

North Macedonia, Belgium, Serbia

Value of the project

60000

Partners

FC Viner, Interkultura, Connect International, PSD Strazilovo, Camping Association of Serbia