Communities First Skills Goals Project

Enhancing Mental Well-Being Through Sports

Welcome to the Skills Goals project, a unique initiative that combines the power of sports with mindfulness techniques to boost both physical and mental well-being. This project, funded by FIFA, the world governing body for football, is dedicated to enhancing the overall health of participants. https://www.fifa.com/social-impact/fifa-foundation Our evidence-based practices, which include mindful breathing and meditation, are designed to elevate cognitive functioning and mental health, resulting in enhanced performance not only in sports but also in everyday life.

 

Michail Antonio Endorses Skills Goals Project

"I am honoured to endorse the Skills Goals Project, a truly transformative initiative that goes beyond the pitch. As a professional footballer, I understand the impact that skills development can have not only on the game but also on personal growth.

The Skills Goals Project doesn't just focus on the technical aspects of football; it nurtures life skills, teamwork, and respect. These are values that go hand-in-hand with success on and off the field. The emphasis on respect aligns with my belief that the beautiful game should unite and inspire.

I commend the project for its commitment to creating well-rounded individuals. Football has the power to shape lives positively, and the Skills Goals Project harnesses that power. It's not just about scoring goals; it's about scoring in life.

As a Jamaican international and player for West Ham United FC, I've witnessed firsthand the positive influence football can have on communities. The Skills Goals Project is an exemplary effort in this regard, and I wholeheartedly support its mission.

To all the participants, coaches, and organisers involved, embrace this opportunity fully. The skills you develop through this project will not only elevate your game but will also contribute to your personal journey. Football is more than a sport; it's a vehicle for growth, and the Skills Goals Project is steering it in the right direction.

Wishing everyone involved the very best in their football journey and beyond”.

Michail Antonio
West Ham United FC
Jamaican Internationaal

Why Skills Goals?

Incorporating mindfulness into sports coaching can be transformative. By training the mind to stay focussed, manage stress, and make better decisions, athletes can unlock their full potential both on and off the field. The Skills Goals project teaches participants how to reprogram their minds to respond positively to stress and pressure. We believe that just like training the body, mental fitness is key to peak performance.

At the core of the Skills Goals Project is the integration of evidence based mindfulness and well-being practices. Our team, with extensive experience in football, sports, and mindfulness coaching, is dedicated to fostering a holistic approach. We are currently in the process of establishing a collaboration with Kooth. This collaboration will provide additional online counselling and mental health support, further  enhancing our commitment to comprehensive well-being.

Within the comprehensive framework of the Skills Goals initiative, we proudly present our Study Sport Learn (SSL) Project. Recognising the significance of holistic student development, especially in academic behaviours, attendance, and overall well-being, we invite educational leaders to explore the transformative effects of the SSL Project on student success. Additionally, consider empowering your educators with our SSL Train the Trainer project to amplify the positive impact within your institution.

 

 

In addition, we are excited to share positive feedback from Croydon College's 2023 six-week project. Feedback from the SSL project at Croydon College reveals substantial positive impacts on attendance, attitudes, and behaviours. This valuable feedback not only validates the effectiveness of our project but also serves as a driving force for continuous improvement. We believe in refining and enhancing our project continually to better meet the needs of our participants.

Furthermore, we're thrilled to announce that the Chelsea FC Foundation plans to launch the Skills Goals project with young people. This is a significant milestone, and we are eager to organise a celebration  to mark this exciting development. Stay tuned for more updates!"

Testimonial

"It is with genuine enthusiasm that I take a moment to share my thoughts on the remarkable work being accomplished on the football pitch under your guidance. Your initiative transcends the boundaries of the sport, delivering far more than what one might typically associate with football.

Having personally witnessed the transformative impact, I must commend your ability to instill crucial life skills in the young people you mentor. As someone not inherently inclined towards football, I am truly impressed by the depth of your project, which goes beyond the game itself.

Your dedication to teaching these individuals how to navigate stress, confront daily challenges, and develop essential life skills is both commendable and inspiring. This commitment speaks volumes about the positive influence you have on their lives.

As a professional deeply engaged in working with young autistic individuals, I recognise the immense value of your initiative. The parallels between our areas of focus are striking, and I am eager to extend my wholehearted support to your cause.

In exploring www.caleidoscope.org.uk, I see a resonance between your work and my passion for making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people. Your initiative aligns seamlessly with my commitment to empowering and enhancing the lives of those facing unique challenges.

I genuinely believe in the potential for collaboration between our endeavours. Perhaps one day, our shared commitment to the well-being of young individuals will converge, and I can contribute in a way that  adds value to your remarkable initiative.

Wishing you continued success on the football pitch and beyond."

Best regards,

Aleksandra Malanska MA Ed., PG Autism
Founder / Autism Practitioner/ LEGO Based Therapy Facilitator
https://www.caleidoscope.org.uk