A Space for Every Girl: How Športna Unija Slovenije Keeps Young Athletes Engaged – STAY!
Through the STAY project, four Slovenian clubs created new roles, stronger connections, and a more inclusive approach to sport.
Teenage girls often step away from sport, not because they stop caring, but because clubs don’t always offer alternatives beyond competition. Športna Unija Slovenije decided to change that. As part of the STAY project, they supported four clubs—basketball, volleyball, and judo—to pilot new ways of keeping girls engaged. We spoke with Mojca from Športna Unija Slovenije about what they tried, what worked, and what they plan to do next.
What activities did you organise?
We introduced mentoring between older and younger girls, gave teens a chance to help with event planning, and offered recreational, non-competitive training. We also organised workshops on topics like nutrition, time management and mental health—things that support young athletes as whole people, not just competitors.
How did you choose who to include?
We worked with girls from three groups: those thinking of quitting, those who had already left, and new or less-active members. Coaches reached out personally. It wasn’t about performance—it was about interest and creating a supportive group where everyone felt welcome.
How did you ensure inclusion?
We created spaces where girls could feel good regardless of their skills. In recreational training, there was no pressure—just fun, movement and friendship. Girls could help lead, plan, and give ideas. Former players returned as mentors or organisers, showing that sport has many roles.
What was the biggest challenge?
The girls were busy—with school, exams, and life. Organising joint sessions was often tricky, and plans had to change last-minute. It also took time to shift mindsets in clubs. Many were focused only on performance, and we had to show that these other activities are valuable too.
Did the girls feel more motivated?
Yes, especially those who weren’t competing anymore. They found joy again—in training, in mentoring, and in simply being part of the club. Mentoring had a big impact. Younger girls felt supported, and older girls felt proud to give back. It boosted confidence on both sides.
How did you make activities accessible?
We were flexible with time and commitment. Girls could join when they could, and choose roles that suited them. Coaches made a big effort to personally invite girls who had stepped away. That one-on-one contact helped many return.
What are your next steps?
We’ll continue with mentoring, recreational sessions and life skills workshops—these are now part of regular club plans. We’ll also train staff to build inclusive, girl-centred environments, share our learnings with other clubs, and apply for new funding to grow this approach.
Any advice to other clubs?
Offer different ways to be part of sport—not just as players. Let girls help lead, create, and connect. Listen to their ideas, and make your club a place where everyone feels they belong. That sense of belonging is just as important as winning.
Through the STAY project, Športna Unija Slovenije created space for every girl to find her place in sport—on or off the field. Thanks to a mix of creativity, flexibility, and care, they showed that keeping girls involved isn’t about lowering expectations—it’s about broadening horizons.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from across Europe, where sport is becoming more inclusive, more flexible, and more human.