On 16 January 2025, the regional exchange of the MDT Community Champions programme took place at the King Willem II Stadium in Tilburg. Young people from Tilburg, Breda, Waalwijk, Oss, and Eindhoven came together for a day filled with sporting activities and personal development. The exchange was organised by Willem II, RKC Waalwijk, NAC Breda, Top Oss, and FC Eindhoven.
Sports and workshops
The young participants had the opportunity to get to know each other better and collaborate on (sporting) challenges. They took part in various workshops, including freestyle skills (led by Nasser El Jackson), wheelchair basketball, and wheelchair rugby. These sessions not only allowed them to develop new skills but also promoted respect, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
In addition to the sporting activities, practical workshops were held on stadium safety, body searches, and professional approaches to security. These sessions provided the participants with valuable insights into the field of safety and security.
The day concluded with street footballer Nasser El Jackson selecting a winner who had demonstrated the most commitment to connection and teamwork. It was a fitting end to a day where the young participants grew not only in sporting ability but also socially and personally.
Teun Hofs, project leader at the RKC Foundation, remarked: "It was wonderful to see how the young people not only improved their sporting skills but also strengthened their bonds with one another. They learned from each other and brought out the best in themselves together."
Networking Event
Alongside the youth exchange, a networking event was held, bringing together participating clubs, Eredivisie CV, various parties from the MDT network, representatives from schools, municipalities, and the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS). The attendees discussed the added value of the Community Champions programme, lessons learned, and plans for the future.