YouRef Erasmus+ Sport Project gains momentum in Gijón

The YouRef Erasmus+ Sport Project is making significant strides in Gijón, Spain, as it aims to foster youth participation in sports officiating. This initiative is crucial in addressing the growing need for qualified sports officials while promoting engagement in physical activities among young people.

Recently, the YouRef project consortium convened for its second Transnational Project Meeting (TPM) on May 27, 2025. The meeting provided an invaluable platform for partners to assess the project’s progress and delineate next steps across various work packages. Central to the discussions was the design and implementation of a comprehensive survey, which is set to play a pivotal role in the research phase of the project. This survey targets young individuals aged 18 to 29, aiming to unearth the motivations and barriers that influence their decisions to pursue careers as sports officials or referees.

Understanding these motivations is vital. Sports officiating is often viewed as a challenging field, but it can also be immensely rewarding. The YouRef project’s emphasis on gathering insights from youth highlights the importance of engaging the next generation in sports governance. By understanding what drives young people—or deters them—from becoming officials, the consortium can tailor interventions and educational programs to foster greater involvement.

In conjunction with the survey, the consortium is also developing an Educational Programme designed to equip university sports departments and schools with necessary resources and training. This online course, to be hosted on SportAcademy.com, will provide institutions with the tools and knowledge required to support the development of future sports officials. With a structured educational framework, the project aims to demystify officiating and make it an appealing career path for aspiring sports lovers.

The importance of education in increasing youth participation cannot be overstated. Initiatives like this not only promote sports officiating but also enhance the overall quality of sports experiences. Well-trained officials ensure fair play, adherence to rules, and create a positive atmosphere in sporting events, significantly contributing to the integrity of sports.

The YouRef project is committed to broadening its reach and impact beyond the current meeting in Gijón. The consortium is slated to participate in the upcoming European Sport Congress, scheduled to be held in Lille, France, from November 5-6, 2025. This annual event gathers across the European sports community, focusing on innovative projects, educational advancements, and enhancing the international dialogue surrounding sports. The congress will provide an additional platform for discussing the YouRef initiative and showcasing its early accomplishments.

At the heart of the European Sport Congress is a dedication to education and innovation—two themes that resonate deeply with the YouRef project’s objectives. By participating in this event, the consortium will not only share its findings and experiences but also gather insights from other stakeholders about what works in encouraging youth participation in sports officiating. Insights gleaned from this congress could help refine the project further, ensuring that it meets its goals effectively and efficiently.

In an era where sports need more engaged and knowledgeable officials, the YouRef project stands out as a beacon of hope. By investing in the education and resources directed toward young people, the initiative promises to create a sustainable pipeline of sports officiating talent, ensuring the future of various sports is bright, inclusive, and accessible for all.

As the consortium builds on its momentum gained during this meeting in Gijón, the focus will remain on collaboration and development. Each partner institution within the YouRef framework brings unique expertise and perspectives, collectively enriching the project’s endeavors. Engaging youth in officiating involves a multifaceted approach, requiring comprehensive strategies focusing on education, encouragement, and capacity building.

The conversations initiated in Gijón will pave the way for a refined approach to sports officiating, shedding light on the positive impacts of youth engagement in sports governance. By capturing and addressing the barriers young people face, the YouRef project will contribute meaningfully to the community while fostering healthy participation in sports.

For those interested in learning more about youth involvement in sports officiating and the YouRef initiative, further updates and details will be available in the coming months as the project unfolds. With initiatives like the YouRef Erasmus+ Sport Project, the future of sports officiating looks promising, illuminated by the energy and passion of the next generation.

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