🇬🇧 GENS – Gender Equality Needs Sport: when sport becomes a safe space to be yourself

A project co-funded by the European Union

Across Europe, many unwritten rules still shape our sport environments:“Football is for boys”, “Dance is for girls”, “Boys must be strong”, “Girls must be delicate”.

But what happens when these expectations become barriers?What if a young person gives up their passion because someone already decided who they should be?

GENS – Gender Equality Needs Sport exists to rewrite this narrative.It is an Erasmus+ Sport initiative co-funded by the European Union, promoting equal opportunities in amateur sport, breaking down gender stereotypes and transforming sports clubs into places where identity and talent can flourish without limits.

“I just want my son to dance without feeling wrong.”Coach, Italy

Why GENS matters

Despite progress in recent years, statistics show that fewer girls practice sport compared to boys in many EU Member States. Not for lack of talent or desire — but due to social pressure, stereotypes, and exclusion.

GENS responds to this challenge with two clear objectives:

🎯 Project objectives

1️⃣ Equip sports managers with knowledge and tools to lead inclusive organisations2️⃣ Support coaches and youth workers to run gender-inclusive training sessions

Workshops, practical tools and open educational resources will help sports clubs become active promoters of gender equality within their communities.

“Sport changed my life — now it must change in the right direction.” Linda, Portugal

The partnership behind GENS

Four organisations, one European mission:

🇮🇹 ASD Balliamo – Italy

A community-driven sports club supporting youth inclusion through dance

🇱🇹 VŠĮ “Sportuokime kartu” – Lithuania

Promoting football for girls and dance for boys — challenging stereotypes daily

🇮🇹 YWCA Italia – Italy

Strong expertise in empowerment, inclusion and community education

🇵🇹 DES – Desporto para a Educação e Saúde – Portugal

Sport as a tool for health, values and equal opportunities for adolescents

“When a girl wants to play football, she should not feel like she needs permission to dream.” Coach, italy

What will happen in the next months

📌 Training sessions for sports managers and coaches📌 Inclusive training methods and mixed-gender activities📌 Open resources: booklets, infographics, practical guidelines📌 Transnational meetings to exchange good practices

Everything is designed to create sustainable change, integrated into the everyday work of sports associations.

The impact we aim for

✨ More confidence and self-expression✨ A healthier relationship with sport and the body✨ Inclusive communities that celebrate diversity✨ A European mindset that embraces freedom and equality

Because sport is for everyone — not for predetermined roles.

Stay connected 📲

Follow the project on our website:👉 www.oltrenetworklab.com/gens