Between 18-19 December, the picturesque city of Rijeka, Croatia, welcomed partners from across Europe for the meeting of the Digital Administrative and Training Assistant (DATA) project. Against the backdrop of this vibrant city, the event laid the groundwork for an ambitious initiative designed to reshape sports management and training through cutting-edge digital innovation.
The DATA project brings together an impressive roster of organisations and experts, each contributing their unique expertise to the initiative.
Project Coordinator:
- Rijeka’s Sports Association (CRO)
Beneficiaries:
- European Judo Union: Katja PRODAN (Education Commissioner responsible for Erasmus+ projects), Marina DRASKOVIC (Education Commissioner responsible for Adapted Judo)
- UNIVERSITAS – Science, Knowledge and Innovation (ESP)
- EUNIK – European Network For Innovation And Knowledge (NED)
- Sport Innovation Hub (ESP)
- Fundacao Do Desporto – Portuguese National Sport Foundation (POR)
The DATA project seeks to address the urgent need for digital transformation within sports organisations. Its goal is to create a professional framework that serves stakeholders at all levels, including coaches, managers, athletes, and even parents. By combining innovative digital tools with specialised education, the project aims to:
- Enhance efficiency in training and management.
- Foster resilience and promote innovation.
- Encourage inclusivity and collaboration across sports ecosystems.
Over two intensive days, participants navigated a robust agenda designed to establish a shared vision and detailed roadmap for the project. Key topics included:
- Project Overview (RSS):
A comprehensive introduction to the project’s objectives, phases, and milestones. - WP1: Project Management (RSS):
Strategies for seamless coordination and effective implementation. - WP2: Research (EUNIK):
A focus on gathering essential data to inform the development of the digital tool. - WP3: APP Design (UNIVERSITAS):
Initial concepts for a state-of-the-art digital support tool tailored to the unique needs of sports organisations. - WP4: Piloting (RSS):
Plans for testing the tool with target groups to refine its functionality. - WP5: Impact and Dissemination (EJU):
Outlined approaches to maximise outreach and ensure the project’s sustainability.
The meeting culminated with an open session to address questions, align on next steps, and solidify communication protocols among partners.
Katja Prodan of the European Judo Union shared her enthusiasm for the DATA project, emphasising its transformative potential:
The European Judo Union is proud to contribute to the DATA project, which aligns perfectly with our mission to promote innovation and excellence in sports. By leveraging digital tools and specialised education, this initiative empowers sports organisations to adapt to modern challenges, enhancing not only performance but also inclusivity and collaboration across all levels of management.
The foundation for the DATA project is now firmly established. By blending advanced technology with a commitment to inclusivity, the initiative promises to set new benchmarks in the evolution of sports management and training. The outcomes of the DATA project are set to resonate far beyond its origins, inspiring a future where digital transformation and human connection in sports management thrive hand in hand.
Author: Szandra Szogedi