From Knowledge to Practice: Inclusive Play Training of Trainers in Płock

From 20 to 22 August 2026, Inclusive Play partners gathered in Płock, Poland, for three days of practical training and professional exchange. Hosted by the Instytut Rozwoju Sportu i Edukacji (IRSiE), the Training of Trainers brought together representatives from six European countries committed to making grassroots sport more inclusive, accessible and meaningful for every child.

During the event, partners presented, demonstrated and tested all seven modules of the Inclusive Sports Training Programme. The sessions explored key areas of inclusive coaching, from understanding children’s participation needs and creating supportive environments to adapting activities, managing group dynamics and cooperating with parents and caregivers.

Each module combined theoretical input with practical exercises, realistic scenarios, discussion and reflection. This hands-on approach helped participants explore how inclusive principles can be translated into everyday coaching practice and adapted to different sports and local contexts.

A central message guided the training: meaningful inclusion is about more than simply being present. Every child should feel safe, respected, understood and able to participate according to their needs, strengths and abilities. Small changes—such as clearer instructions, predictable routines, flexible activities and stronger communication with families—can make a significant difference.

During their stay, the trainers also visited the Wisła Płock Youth Cup 2026, an international youth football tournament taking place in the city. The visit complemented the training by offering an opportunity to experience the energy of youth sport in practice.

The knowledge and feedback gathered in Płock will support the upcoming local workshops and piloting activities across the partner countries. These next steps will bring the programme closer to coaches, educators, trainers and grassroots sport organisations while contributing to safer and more supportive sporting experiences for children with SEND.

The successful event demonstrated the value of international cooperation and marked another important step towards sport environments where every child can participate, develop and experience a genuine sense of belonging.

Inclusive Play is co-funded by the European Union through the Erasmus+ Sport programme.