The 18th International Sports and Social Event, “SPORTWAY – BE AN ATHLETE – PLAY WITH ME,” unfolded with remarkable success on September 23, 2024. Organized by the Center Janeza Levca Ljubljana and the Association for Inclusive Culture, alongside the co-organization of the Ljubljana Sports Association, this event promoted inclusivity and sportsmanship
Held at the Sports Center Triglav, the event embraced the spirit of Slovenian sports and the European Week of Sport. The clear morning saw sports enthusiasts of all ages and abilities gather on the fields, ready to engage in a variety of activities. The event’s highlight was its incorporation of initiatives from the SportWay project, aimed at introducing diverse and inclusive sports practices to a broader audience.

Participants joined in games of bocce, soccer, volleyball, and basketball, karate while also exploring sports-themed workshops that encouraged learning and interaction.  The event was distinctively enriched by the inclusion of traditional shepherds’ games and childhood activities, offering nostalgic fun without the need for prior registration. These activities emphasized the joy of participation over competition, fostering an environment of tolerance and respect.

Central to the event was the celebration of diversity and the equal inclusion of children and young people, particularly those with special needs. By encouraging interaction between typically developing peers and those with additional needs, the organizers successfully highlighted the importance of fair play and acceptance. The atmosphere thrived on the values of cooperation and mutual respect, resonating with all who attended.

As the morning drew to a close, participants gathered for a group game, culminating in the awarding of the prestigious “Fair Play” trophy. This symbolic gesture reinforced the event’s core message: that sports and social gatherings can be powerful tools for bridging gaps and building inclusive communities

The “SPORTWAY – BE AN ATHLETE – PLAY WITH ME” event not only provided a platform for physical activity but also served as a beacon of international cooperation and cultural exchange. It stood as a testament to the organizers’ commitment to nurturing an inclusive sports culture, setting a standard for future events. The success of this gathering laid the groundwork for ongoing projects, ensuring that the spirit of inclusivity continues to thrive well into the future. Central to the event was the celebration of diversity and the equal inclusion of children and young people, particularly those with special needs. By encouraging interaction between typically developing peers and those with additional needs, the organizers successfully highlighted the importance of fair play and acceptance. The atmosphere thrived on the values of cooperation and mutual respect, resonating with all who attended. As the morning drew to a close, participants gathered for a group game, culminating in the awarding of the prestigious “Fair Play” trophy. This symbolic gesture reinforced the event’s core message: that sports and social gatherings can be powerful tools for bridging gaps and building inclusive communities