We are now halfway through the Coaching for Community Camp in Trzebnica, Poland, and the atmosphere is buzzing. From the start, participants have shown enthusiasm and a shared commitment to using sport as a tool for integration and mental well-being. With a mix of discussions, practical workshops, and hands-on activities, the camp is proving to be a valuable learning experience.

The past few days have been filled with engaging interactions, teamwork, and useful insights. Tandem Coaches and Assistant Coaches, supported by experts from Poland, the US, and international organisations, have been taking part in a well-structured programme designed to help them support Ukrainian children affected by war.

One highlight so far has been the city game, which encouraged cooperation, problem-solving, and cultural exchange. The challenges weren’t easy, but participants worked together and learned more about one another in the process.

Expert-Led Training and Practical Learning

The camp features two parallel training tracks to cater to different participants:

•    Coach Assistant Track – for young people developing basic coaching skills.
•    Tandem Coach Track – for Polish-Ukrainian coaching pairs preparing to run sports activities in Wrocław from March 2025.

Workshops led by StreetGames UK, Edgework Consulting, The Centre for Healing and Justice through Sport, and other organisations have introduced participants to trauma-informed coaching, inclusive sports strategies, and sport-based therapy techniques. These skills will help them support young people effectively.

Each day balances theory sessions with practical workshops, keeping participants involved and motivated. The discussions, exercises, and shared experiences have created an environment where knowledge is applied, skills are developed, and relationships are built.

The Coaching for Community Camp is part of the Let’s Play Together initiative, which equips Polish and Ukrainian coaches with tools to support refugee children through sport. If successful, the model could be expanded to other regions facing similar challenges.

We as ISCA are happy to act as the International Communication Partner of the project, and help to promote sport-based integration and well-being on an international scale.

As we approach the final days of the camp, it is clear that the lessons learned here will continue to benefit communities beyond Trzebnica. The Let’s Play Together initiative is coming together, with the potential to provide meaningful support to children affected by conflict.

Lear more about the project: 
https://letsplaytogether.v4sport.eu/