EUSA Institute and the University of Ljubljana hosted the kickoff meeting of the project Enhancing Sport Organisations and Management (ESOM), co-funded by the European Union.

Main aim of the project is to strengthen management and event organisation in university sport. This will be done through blended learning, sharing experiences, gaining new information and skills on the key topics of sports management, funding, communication and other key topics.



On behalf of the hosts, the participants were welcomed by the EUSA Secretary General Mr Matjaz Pecovnik and Vice-Rector of the University of Ljubljana Mr Matjaz Drevensek.



EUSA Communications and Projects Manager Mr Andrej Pisl guided the participants through the main project objectives and activities. All project partners were able to introduce themselves and the organisations they represent.



The participants also discussed more specific aspects of the project management, including the financial and contractual obligations, review of planned activities, internal and external communication, and specifically next steps.



Main activities and pillars include research (conducting a survey and collecting good practice), education (online and live workshops and seminars), and dissemination (creating resources and recommendations, conferences). The project primarily and directly addresses EU priorities on supporting Good Governance in Sport through promoting the quality of coaching and staff, and also indirectly by promoting Sport and Education, supporting the dual careers of athletes.



The project kickoff was also an opportunity to have a short guided tour of the Rectorate of the University of Ljubljana, as well as visiting sports facilities of the University of Ljubljana and see the approach of engaging students in sport in practice.



ESOM is lead by the EUSA Institute (SLO), with national university sports associations: Croatian Academic Sports Federation (CRO), Hungarian University Sports Federation (HUN), Students Sports Association of Montenegro (MNE), Student Sports Association the Netherlands (NED), University Sports Association of Poland (POL), Sports Students' Union of Ukraine (UKR) and the University of Ljubljana (SLO). The project is co-financed by the European Union.