International Council for Coaching Excellence is proud to highlight the official launch of the B-FREE project, a 24-month Erasmus+ project aimed at fostering safe, inclusive, and empowering environments for young athletes across Europe.

The project commenced with a dynamic and engaging kickoff meeting hosted by Oslo Orcas IF in Oslo. The gathering brought together all project partners for the first time, offering an opportunity to build relationships, align expectations, and establish a shared vision for the journey ahead.

During the meeting, participants explored the project’s core objectives, collaboratively shaped a common roadmap, and clarified working methods to ensure effective cooperation throughout the project lifecycle. From the outset, there was a strong sense of unity and shared purpose among partners, reinforcing the project’s commitment to meaningful impact.

B-FREE focuses on using sport as a vehicle for positive youth development, promoting values such as respect, inclusion, and connection. By creating supportive spaces for young athletes, the initiative aims to strengthen both personal growth and community cohesion.

The project consortium includes a diverse network of academic institutions, sports organizations, and grassroots associations. Key partners include Hacettepe University, Gençlik ve Spor Gönüllüleri Derneği, Sport Singularity, Associação de Futebol de Bragança, Rijecki sportski savez, and Judo zveza Slovenije, among others. Dr. Gary Hodgson represented ICCE at this event.

ICCE extends its sincere appreciation to all partners and contributors for their dedication, expertise, and collaborative spirit. The kickoff meeting marked not only the beginning of a new project but also the foundation of a strong partnership built on trust and shared ambition.

As the B-FREE project moves forward, partners remain committed to learning, growing, and creating lasting impact – together.