MODULE 1: INTRODUCTION TO NON-FORMAL EDUCATION IN SPORT

A mindfulness-oriented trainer sees the team as a space where every young person regardless of background, ability, or personality has a place and feels respected.

This manual is here to walk you through the rest. You’ll find practical examples, ready-to-use tools, and real stories from other trainers and athletes who are already applying this approach. Step by step, it will help you build a trainer’s style that is strong, supportive, and deeply human.

Because in the end, trainers aren’t just about results-it’s about relationships. And those relationships can change lives!

Activity 1: “Ask & Exchange”

Objective: To encourage participants to interact, learn more about each other, active listening and build initial connections in a dynamic, inclusive and engaging way.

Duration: 20-25 min

Group format: Whole group, rotating pairs (Optimum group size is 20-25 participants, with a maximum of 30. This activity works best with an even number of participants (to form pairs). If needed, one group of three can be formed)

Materials: A4 paper, pens or markers

Instructions:

  1. Each participant takes a sheet of paper and writes down two questions they would like to ask someone in the group. These can be fun, thoughtful, or reflective as long as they help get to know someone better (e.g., “What motivates you every day?” or “What’s your favorite way to relax?”).
  2. Participants then pair up with someone and take turns asking and answering the questions they’ve written.
  3. Each participant asks and answers the questions on their own paper.
  4. After both have shared, they exchange their sheets with the questions and move on to a new partner.
  5. The process repeats: each participant asks the questions written on the new sheet they received and continues exchanging and rotating partners until they’ve spoken with everyone in the group.

Debriefing 5-10 min:

  • What’s one thing you discovered today that surprised you?
  • How did it feel to share something personal or reflective?
  • Why might connection and trust be important in a team or youth sports context?

Outcome: This interactive exercise not only helps participants get to know one another on a deeper level, but also encourages active listening and openness-setting a positive tone for the rest of the training.

Activity 2: “Navigation Challenge”

Objective: To build trust, enhance non-verbal communication and reflect on teamwork through a playful experience.

Duration: 30-35 min

Group format: Pairs, full group debrief (Optimum group size is 20-25 participants, with a maximum of 30. This activity works best with an even number of participants (to form pairs). If needed, one group of three can be formed)

Materials: Blindfolds or scarves (optional), objects for creating safe obstacle course (cones, bags, bottles, chairs…)

Instructions:

  1. Based on the shared interests identified during the previous “Ask & Exchange” activity, participants are grouped into pairs.
  2. Divide participants into pairs (mix those who haven’t worked together yet)
  3. One person in the pair is blindfolded (or simply keeps their eyes closed) and the other becomes their navigator/guide.
  4. Trainers will have previously set up an obstacle course using available items such as backpacks, bags, boxes, chairs, or other safe objects.
  5. The navigator guides their blindfolded partner only using sounds and claps-no speaking is allowed. For example:
    • One clap = go forward
    • Two claps = stop
    • Three claps = turn
    • Humming or snapping = optional codes
  6. Once the blindfolded person completes the course, partners switch roles and repeat the process.

Debriefing 10-15 min:

  • How did it feel to rely only on sounds instead of words?
  •  How did it feel to rely only on sounds instead of words?
  • What does this tell us about leadership and trust under pressure?
  • In sports, how often do we pay attention to non-verbal signals?

Outcome: Participants gain insight into communication beyond language, experience mutual vulnerability and reflect on leadership in uncertain situations

Activity 3: The value lines

Objective: To explore personal values, stimulate discussion on diversity of perspectives, and introduce reflection as a core part of NFE in sports.

Duration: 20-30 min

Group format: Whole group (Optimum group size is 20-25 participants, with a maximum of 30)

Materials: Printed value statements (or trainer can read them aloud), masking tape or string to create a line on the floor.

Instructions:

  1. Use tape or rope to mark a straight line on the ground (“values line”). Label one end as “Strongly agree” and the other as “Strongly disagree”. Trainer are dividing participants into pairs (mix those who haven’t worked together yet).
  2. Trainer is telling to participants that he’ll read a series of statements related to sport, emotions and team dynamics. After each one, they should silently choose a spot on the line that reflects how much they agree or disagree.
  3. Trainer is reading 6-8 statements such as:
    • “Winning is the most important part of sports”
    • “It’s okay to show emotions in front of teammates”
    • “Trainers should talk about mental well-being during practice”
    • “I feel safe sharing my feeling in a sport setting”
    • “I am super excited when we are doing outdoor activities not connected with our sport”
    • “Sometimes I feel like my trainer/coach doesn’t understand me at all” 
  4. After each statement, pause. Invite a few volunteers to share why they stood where they did (optional-no pressure).
  5. Ensure a respectful tone of the voice. Differences in opinion are more than welcome.

Debriefing 10 min:

  • Which statements made you stop and think?
  • Did someone’s opinion surprise or shift your own perspective?
  • Why is it important to recognize different values in a team?
  • How can we, as trainers, create space for these conversations in sport?

Outcome: Participants reflect on personal and group values, building empathy and opening space for deeper discussions within a sports context.

Reflections and discussion questions connected with this Module:

  • What does non-formal education offer that traditional sports training often doesn’t?
  • How can a trainer shift from performance-only focus to whole-person development?
  • What qualities or habits define a mindfulness-oriented trainer?
  • Which activity from this module would you try first in your club and why?

By the end of this module, participants will:

  • Understand what non-formal education means in the context of sport
  • Be able to recognize how NFE methods can support young athletes’ mental and emotional well-being
  • Identify the key qualities and mindset of a mindfulness-oriented trainer
  • Connect real-life needs (from MindPlay research) with practical ways to respond to them

This isn’t about changing everything overnight. It’s about starting with small, intentional steps, ones that lead to healthier, more inclusive sports environments where young people can thrive.