Strong Mind for Success (#S.M.S.) is a 24-month Erasmus+ Small-Scale Partnership that aims to promote mental health and well-being among young football players, recognising the strong connection between psychological well-being, personal development, and sports performance. The project responds to the growing need to address mental health challenges in youth sport and to equip young athletes with the knowledge and tools needed to manage stress, build resilience, and adopt a more holistic approach to their everyday lives.

The project seeks to educate both male and female academy footballers on the importance of mental health in achieving sporting success and overall well-being. At the same time, it promotes gender equality in football by encouraging mixed training activities and creating inclusive environments where young people can learn, develop, and support one another. By aligning with European policies on mental health and gender equality in sport, the project contributes to building healthier and more inclusive sporting communities.

To achieve its objectives, the partnership will conduct research activities, including focus groups and surveys, to better understand the challenges and obstacles faced by young football players regarding mental well-being. Based on these findings, the consortium will implement local awareness-raising activities and workshops for players and coaches, develop an educational platform offering accessible resources on mental health, and produce the #S.M.S. Handbook containing practical information and guidance on adopting a holistic approach to personal and sporting development.

The project is implemented by a transnational consortium bringing together organisations from Bulgaria, Slovenia, and Italy, combining expertise in grassroots sport, youth work, and education. Through the exchange of good practices and collaborative learning, the partnership aims to create sustainable resources and empower young football players with the skills and mindset necessary to overcome mental barriers and thrive both on and off the field.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.