EuroHockey hosted the official first meeting of the HAND IN HAND project marking the start of a European-wide effort to combat violence against women through the power of sport.
The opening meeting took place at the EuroHockey headquarters in Brussels where partners from across Europe gathered to set the foundation for this ambitious initiative.
A Collaborative European Partnership
Led by the FIGC (Italian Football Federation), the project brings together a diverse consortium of organisations committed to social change. Partners include:
- EuroHockey
- Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia (UNIMORE)
- Balgarski Sportein Inovatsionen Hub
- Albanian Football Federation
- Fédération Française de Hockey sur Gazon
- Association Alice Milliat
- Formodena
The European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) also joined the opening session, represented by project officer Barbara Gonzalez Lobo.
Sport as a Platform for Change
HAND IN HAND aims to address violence against women by transforming sports environments into educational spaces that foster mutual respect. At the core of the project is a strategy to work with young male athletes, helping them understand and challenge gender‑based violence while promoting a culture of equality.
The initiative focuses specifically on two traditionally male‑dominated sports: football and hockey. By targeting athletes aged 18 to 24, the project seeks to shape behaviours and attitudes at a formative stage, turning clubs into hubs for positive social development.
Governance and Project Structure
During the Brussels meeting, partners formally established the main governance bodies that will steer the project:
- Steering Committee (project management board)
- Scientific Committee
- Media Committee
These committees will guide the project’s strategic direction, research approach, and communication efforts.
Alongside governance, partners outlined a detailed project structure covering management, development, and communication activities. Particular emphasis was placed on the role of coaches, who will be central figures in educating players and reinforcing principles of respect and non‑violence within teams.
Developing a New Coaching Methodology
A major output of HAND IN HAND will be the creation of a comprehensive methodology for coaches, including:
- Training tools and educational activities
- Practical guidance on addressing gender‑based violence
- Rules and frameworks to embed equality within team culture
- An online course for coaches
- A digital toolkit for ongoing support
These resources aim to shift the perception of gender‑based violence from a “women’s issue” to a societal responsibility, with male players and coaches taking an active role in prevention.
