With the begining of 2024, following multiple successful changes in International School Sport Federation (ISF) in its development and future planning, the topic of School Sport Foundation (SSF) has been opened.
ISF was aware of power of school sports globally when funded International School Sport Foundation back in 2015. under presidency of today’s president Laurent Petrynka. Main goal stayed the same which was leveraging sports as a tool for educational advancement and addressing inequality, particularly in emerging economies. This unique approach focuses on integrating sports into the educational experience, fostering both physical and intellectual development, and promoting equal opportunities in regions where access to education and sports might be limited.
In March 2024, SSF underwent a significant transformation in leadership, following an exciting phase of renewal and expansion. Roman Greba, a prominent sports activist and member of the ISF Executive Committee, assumes the presidency of SSF, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise. Reflecting on his dedication to the cause of school sports, President Roman Greba shares:
“For over six years, I’ve dedicated myself to advancing school sports in Ukraine and around the world, recognizing its crucial role in supporting youth and fostering their health and happiness. As a member of the ISF EC, I enthusiastically accepted the opportunity to lead SSF, knowing that supporting those in need not only betters the world but enriches our own lives, making us better individuals.”
SSF’s core focus on school sports, aligned with ISF’s mission, underscores its commitment to fostering full-scale youth development through school sport. SSF brings to this approach the acknowledgment of the importance of Olympism, emphasized by Diane De Navacelle De Coubertin, a direct descendant of Pierre de Coubertin, who assumes the role of Senior Director at SSF.
„Sport is a very interesting and powerful tool to discover who you are… It raises you into a stronger and more confident person, it is a solid base to construct yourself on. That is certainly one of the reasons why my ancestor, Pierre de Coubertin, before creating the modern Olympic games, fought to introduce sports in schools at the end of the 19th century in France, so every child could benefit from it. A chance to education and to sports should be equally given to any human being.“ – De Navacelle de Coubertin continues.
2024: A YEAR OF TRANSFORMATION
SSF primary goals are to facilitate access to school sports programs in underprivileged areas, recognizing it as a cornerstone for the full-scale development of young individuals. SSF mission revolves around promoting education and participation through and in sports.
SSF kicks off 2024 with a planned agenda, focusing on two key projects: infrastructural development and equipment support on a global scale. The first project will be launched in Ukraine, while the other extends its reach to four continents and eight countries.
“In 2024, we aim to focus on building sports infrastructure for internally displaced children in Ukraine and providing sports attire and equipment to children in South America, Africa, and Asia. We plan to extend our support to approximately eight countries, ensuring that children in these regions have the necessary resources to engage in sports and physical activities, fostering their growth, health, and happiness,” Greba stated.
Official Relaunch
The official public announcement of SSF’s relaunch is scheduled during the ISF World School Cross Country Event in Nairobi, Kenya, from May 10th to 15th. The opening ceremony will feature SSF’s inaugural auction, showcasing cultural goods and sports artifacts signed by renowned athletes to kickstart donations. SSF’s main strategy rests on partnerships, member activities, auctions, fundraising events, and various cooperation platforms.
Looking Ahead Greba concluded: “In the future, we aim to expand our activities to all five continents, supporting even more young athletes and collaborating with organizations that share our vision of utilizing sports as a tool for social empowerment and personal growth. I warmly welcome everyone driven by the desire to empower children through school sports, aiming to make the world a better place to live. By donating, you play a crucial role in this mission, helping us expand our impact globally and create a healthier, happier community for our youth.”
Connect, Support & Donate
School Sport Foundation has launched its new website and social media accounts. Connect and support the cause starting today.
