Sport isn’t just about medals, records, or trophies—it’s about connection, participation, and joy. That’s the heartbeat behind SportWay, an international project bringing people of all abilities together through inclusive sporting events in Slovenia, Italy, and Austria. Launched with the support of the Erasmus+ Sport programme, this not-for-profit initiative is on a mission to prove that sport truly is for everyone.

A Long Road with a Clear Goal

SportWay didn’t happen overnight. In fact, the seeds were planted over 3 years ago. After a first, unsuccessful attempt at funding, the coordinating team from Slovenia rolled up their sleeves and refined the vision. Enter ACTIVE Austria, who discovered the team online and immediately saw potential for collaboration. Then came our Italian partners—found through an open call on social media—and just like that, a passionate, cross-border team was born.

Through countless online meetings, late-night brainstorms, and shared Google Docs, the teams crafted an inclusive project design: three large-scale sports events (one in each country), three international team meetings, and one common goal—empower individuals of all backgrounds and abilities through the unifying power of sport.

SportWay’s Winning Strategy

At the heart of SportWay is a solid strategy built around inclusion, sustainability, and innovation:

• Digital Tools for Equal Access: Everything from registration to evaluations is digital—think Google Forms, shared drives, and translation apps. This helps participants with disabilities, immigrants, and those in remote areas engage with ease.
  
• Green Goals on the Move: All events are designed with the environment in mind. Tap water over plastic bottles, QR codes instead of flyers, outdoor venues, local snacks, and eco-friendly transport—it’s sustainability in action.
  
• Targeted Outreach: SportWay makes sure no one is left out. By tapping into schools, special needs organizations, sports clubs, and universities, the project is reaching participants, mentors, and volunteers from every walk of life.

Game On: The Sport Events

The fun kicked off in Ljubljana, Slovenia, in September 2024 during the EU Week of Sport. Picture a stadium full of smiles, laughter, and movement—wheelchairs racing, kids jumping hurdles, and volunteers capturing it all on camera. In May 2025, the torch passed to Possagno, Italy, followed by the final chapter in Austria in September 2025.

Each event isn’t just about sports—it’s a celebration of diversity, a chance to learn from each other, and a step toward a more inclusive Europe.

More Than a Project

SportWay is a reminder that sport can be a force for good—a place where people with disabilities, immigrants, children, seniors, and athletes all move together toward the same finish line: connection. It’s not about who wins, but how we play. And thanks to SportWay, we’re playing together.

Let the games begin—the inclusive way. 🏃‍♀️🌍💚