On 22–23 September, the International Council for Coaching Excellence (ICCE) was represented by Carolina Mendonça, Global Coaches Day Coordinator, at two important European sport events in Dublin, Ireland.

22 September – Presidency Conference on Traditional Sports and Games | Croke Park

Organised under the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the conference explored how traditional sports and games can promote cultural heritage, diversity, social inclusion and sustainability.

The programme also featured the presentation of the 2026 Eurobarometer on Sport and Physical Activity, an important reference for European sport policy and participation.

23 September – European Opening of the European Week of Sport | Sport Ireland Campus

The official launch of the #BeActive campaign brought together European sport stakeholders to celebrate participation, inclusion and the benefits of active lifestyles through sporting activities, institutional contributions and networking.

During the event, Carolina Mendonça held a conversation with Georg Häusler, Director for Culture, Creativity and Sport at the European Commission, focusing on Global Coaches Day. The discussion highlighted the importance of recognising coaches worldwide, raising awareness of their essential contribution to sport and society, and promoting the value of coaching at all levels of participation. It also explored opportunities for future cooperation between the European Union and ICCE, including potential synergies with the European Week of Sport.

Two days, one shared message: sport connects people, communities and cultures – and coaches play an essential role in making it happen.

Taking place just ahead of Global Coaches Day on 25 September, these events reinforced the importance of celebrating coaches and their contribution to positive, inclusive and meaningful sporting experiences.