The conference brought together a record number of participants in Split, with more than 160 representatives of national Olympic and Paralympic committees, national sports federations, and organisations working every day to develop sport within their communities. Among the participants was Prof. Romana Caput-Jogunica, PhD, a long-standing associate of the Croatian Olympic Committee and a member of the ENGSO Executive Committee.
The first day began with the final conference of the Erasmus+ project SURE (Sport for Unity, Resilience and Empowerment), which explored how grassroots sports organisations can remain resilient in times of crisis and why their sustainability matters. The Resilience Compass, one of the key outcomes developed within the project, was also presented.
The second day opened with a lecture entitled “From Silence to Science” by Dr Davorka Herman Mahečić, MD, focusing on women's health in sport throughout all stages of life, from reproductive health to pregnancy, the postpartum period, and menopause.
The panel discussion “Successful in Sport, Successful in Business”, moderated by Mia Baćić, featured former volleyball players Maja Poljak and Lorena Šipić, alongside Paris Olympic judo gold medallist Barbara Đinović, who shared their experiences of transitioning from elite sport to professional careers.
The ENGSO Equality in Sport Committee facilitated a networking session for organisers of women's sporting events, while a decade of partnership within ENGSO's educational initiatives was also highlighted. The programme continued with parallel workshops addressing inclusive sports policies, youth participation in sports governance, and Sports Without Borders, a project aimed at breaking down barriers through sport.
The final day focused on empowerment, sports funding, and volunteering in sport. Former professional cyclist Nahom Desale shared his personal journey from refugee to professional athlete.
Dr Tanja Bilić Brenner, Ivana Aničić, and Niki Koutrou, PhD, discussed the invaluable contribution of volunteers – the people who keep sport running behind the scenes – presenting research findings and practical experiences in volunteer development and management.
Leandro Pereira Mendes from European Lotteries presented a model demonstrating how national lotteries contribute to society and support sport for all. (HOO/mp)
We would like to thank ENGSO for placing its trust in us, all speakers and participants for their open and meaningful exchange of ideas, and our partners and volunteers for making these three days possible. It was a pleasure to welcome colleagues from across Europe to Split!
