Why has sport historically been dominated by men, and how can we challenge this imbalance?
Starting in May, a new training programme for coaches and athletes aims to break down gender stereotypes and tackle discrimination in sports environments.
Although the sports sector is gradually becoming more diverse, with increasing visibility of women and LGBTQIA+ individuals in both grassroots and competitive contexts, many sports structures are still not fully equipped to embrace these changes. Barriers linked to gender norms, stereotypes, and discrimination continue to limit equal participation and inclusion.
The SISTERS project responds to this challenge through a comprehensive training programme: a multi-modular learning experience designed for sports managers, coaches, and athletes. The training combines theoretical insights with practical tools, interactive activities, and real-life scenarios to foster inclusive and equitable sports environments.
Participants will explore key topics such as gender, intersectionality, stereotypes, and inclusive communication, while developing concrete skills to recognise and address discrimination in their daily practice. The training is based on the Sports Bag, a toolkit of resources and activities that supports organisations in promoting inclusive governance in sport.
What to expect from the training?
The programme is designed as a blended learning experience, combining in-person interaction with complementary online components. It includes 2 face-to-face sessions, each lasting approximately 3 hours, where participants engage in interactive activities, group discussions, and scenario-based exercises grounded in real-life sport contexts. The training is delivered in small groups to maximise participation and exchange.
Objectives
The training aims to strengthen participants’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes to promote inclusive and equitable practices in sport. In particular, it seeks to:
- raise awareness on gender and LGBTQIA+ sensitivity;
- support the identification and prevention of discrimination;
- promote inclusive practices and fair governance models in sport.
Who can participate?
The programme is open to a diverse range of actors within the sports ecosystem, including sports managers, coaches, support staff, and young athletes who are interested in fostering more inclusive environments within their organisations and teams.
Participation in the programme is for free, subject to registration.
When?
The training will take place in May 2026.
Contact Nuria Casablanca at nuria.casablanca@cesie.org by 8 May 2026 to book your place to the programme.
Do not hesitate to contact us for more information or to join the training programme.
Let’s work together to build safer, more inclusive sports environments for everyone.
About the project
SISTERS is funded by the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA), under the Erasmus Sport programme, a project aiming to promote women’s and the LGBTQIA+ community’s full inclusion in sports by advancing equity through an intersectional approach.
Partners
- CESIE ETS (Italy, coordinator)
- Associaciao de Futbol do Porto (Portugal)
- Champions Factory (Bulgaria)
- Symplexis (Greece)
- CSI Center for Social Innovation LTD (Cyprus)
- SARAJEVO SUSRET KULTURA – SMOC (Bosnia-Herzegovina)
For more information
Read the project factsheet, visit the website and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
For more information, contact Nuria Casablanca: nuria.casablanca@cesie.org
