EXPLORE IT
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The Water Sports Festival (WSF) project is driven by a primary objective: to embrace a multi-sport approach and expand the array of water sports within partner organizations. This initiative is anchored in extensive research that underscores the detrimental consequences of early specialization in a single sport, particularly among young athletes. Specialization can lead to overuse injuries, burnout, and stress-related physical and mental health issues
On the flip side, the WSF project champions the numerous advantages of a multi-sport approach. It fosters greater overall athleticism and motor skills while nurturing a broader network of social relationships within the sporting community. Athletes engaging in various sports tend to enjoy longer and more fulfilling sporting careers, as well as prolonged involvement in physical activity.
The collaborative efforts of three organizations in this project demonstrate a synergy in their respective water sports disciplines. Sharks in Sweden specializes in triathlon, Sirens in Malta is active in swimming, water polo, and artistic swimming, and Novi Jelkovec in Croatia excels in finswimming—a particularly trendy and promising sport known for its potential to attract new enthusiasts.
Throughout the project’s duration, partner organizations will share best practices and support one another in introducing these new water sports. They will also leverage the valuable knowledge acquired through the ERASMUS+ Sport project “Aurora – Sport.School.Life,” which has produced exceptional educational materials related to training organization, nutrition, and administrative management in sports. This invaluable expertise will empower newcomers to enhance the day-to-day operations of their respective clubs.
A key emphasis of this consortium is on promoting grassroots sporting values and fostering inclusivity, ensuring that individuals with fewer opportunities have access to the benefits of sports. The European dimension of the project, along with its transnational multisport approach, adds a dynamic and attractive dimension, positioning it for potential replication and impact not only within the EU but on a global scale. The WSF project is not just about sports—it’s a holistic endeavour promoting physical well-being, social engagement, and the cultivation of new habits, lifestyle and values.
The European Commission’s support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents, which reflect the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.