GOAL - Growing Outstanding Athletic Leaders

ongoing

The GOAL project is a Small-Scale Cooperation Partnership under the Erasmus+ programme, focusing on supporting skills development in sport. Its primary objective is to enhance the talent identification and development system in football across Malta, Finland, and the Netherlands. The project addresses the disparities in scouting and training methodologies by introducing a harmonised, evidence-based model that ensures fair and accurate talent selection for young athletes of all genders. To achieve these objectives, the project will implement a series of capacity-building activities, including in-person training sessions for coaches in Malta, job shadowing opportunities in Finland, and online workshops for continuous knowledge exchange. These activities are designed to equip coaches with advanced scouting techniques and training methodologies, focusing on both the physical and psychological aspects of athlete development across all genders. Additionally, the project will incorporate nutritional education to optimise players' performance, ensuring a holistic approach to skills development. The relevance of the GOAL project to the Erasmus+ priorities lies in its commitment to fostering inclusivity, excellence, and sustainability in sports. By aligning local practices with European standards and promoting cross-border cooperation, the project seeks to strengthen the professional capabilities of coaches, enhance the competitiveness of young athletes, and contribute to the broader goal of European cohesion in the sports sector. The anticipated outcomes include a sustainable talent identification framework for football in Malta, improved coaching skills, and a more inclusive and competitive environment for youth football.