The Employment@Sport event took place from September 22–26, 2025, in Santa Cruz, Torres Vedras (Portugal) – bringing together over 130 participants from across Europe and beyond. Organized by Sport Evolution Alliance as part of the European Week of Sport, the event focused on sport as a pathway to employment, empowerment, and inclusion.
During one of the workshop sessions, the AFTERMATCH 2.0 Reload project was presented to a diverse audience of young athletes, students, and early-career staff of sports organizations.
A Platform for Opportunity
Employment@Sport was more than just a conference – it was an initiative that opens real doors for young people interested in building a future in the sports industry. Over five days of workshops, networking, and hands-on activities, participants were able to:
- Discover various professional roles within the world of sport
- Enhance their employability and transferable skills
- Connect with peers, mentors, and experienced professionals
- Learn about EU projects supporting education and mobility in sport
Introducing the Dual Career Model
#AFTERMATCH 2.0 Reload was presented as a best-practice example of how the #DualCareer model can be implemented to support athletes in balancing sport with education and future careers. Special attention was given to the role of the Dual Career Officer (DCO) – a key innovation of the project.
The presentation helped raise awareness among young participants who may one day become athletes, coaches, or sport managers, showing them that #DualCareer planning starts early – and that structured support can make a real difference.
“Honestly, I wish events like this existed when I was in high school or university – I might have found my own path in sport much earlier.”
Looking Ahead
The #AFTERMATCH session received excellent feedback and sparked meaningful conversations around youth empowerment in sport. The atmosphere in Santa Cruz was full of energy, inspiration, and ambition — a perfect setting for presenting a project built on long-term development and sustainability.
A huge thank you to Sport Evolution Alliance team for the invitation and warm hospitality. We look forward to future collaborations in shaping a stronger and more inclusive sports ecosystem.
