“ACTIVUS” is an Erasmus+ Sport project that promotes the concept of Dual Careers — helping young, talented athletes balance their sporting ambitions with education and work. The project addresses the challenges faced by athletes striving to build both their sports careers and personal development, while also supporting the professional growth of the trainers and coaches who guide them.

By focusing on the holistic development of young athletes and the soft skills they need to thrive beyond the field, ACTIVUS aims to improve sport environments and create sustainable support systems for athletes navigating dual career pathways. At the same time, it equips coaches and trainers with new knowledge, tools, and policy frameworks to better assist these athletes.

The project delivers its objectives through a combination of research, local focus groups, international training events, pilot programs, and policy recommendations. Activities include participatory workshops, experiential learning, and the development of educational resources that foster both athletic and personal growth.

Key deliverables include:

• A comprehensive Trainer’s Toolbox/Handbook that combines theory, best practices, and training modules to support athletes’ dual careers and soft-skill development.
• Clear Policy Guidelines for sport organisations and policymakers, encouraging inclusive, sustainable frameworks for dual careers.
• A dedicated Project Website to share knowledge, tools, and success stories.
• Tailored Training Modules and international staff training events for professionals.
• Local and transnational Focus Groups engaging athletes, coaches, and stakeholders.
• Dissemination activities including workshops, events, and a final public presentation of results.

By combining evidence-based research, stakeholder engagement, and innovative educational approaches, ACTIVUS aims to inspire a more inclusive, supportive sport culture — one where young athletes can achieve excellence both in sport and in life.

The project is delivered by a diverse consortium of organisations from the Netherlands, Romania, North Macedonia, Italy, Portugal, and Spain, each bringing expertise in sport, education, research, and policy to drive positive change across Europe.

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.