SPECIALRACKET project united Bulgaria, Italy and Greece for Inclusive Badminton sport in Sofia

SPECIALRACKET project united Bulgaria, Italy and Greece for Inclusive Badminton sport in Sofia

On 9 May, 2026 Sofia became the meeting point for inclusion, sport, and international cooperation during Transnational Partners’ Meeting 5 and Training Session 3 held on the SPECIALRACKET project.

Representatives and coaches from Badminton Club “Racket speed” (Bulgaria), Aps Asd Margherita Sport e Vita (Italy) and Hellenic Powerlifting Association/Elliniko Somateio dynamikou Triathlou (Greece) came together to exchange knowledge, share experiences and promote the role of adapted badminton in creating equal opportunities for children and youth with special needs.

The event started at the Olympic Education Center of the National Sports Academy “Vasil Levski”. Gergin Angelov, President of Badminton Club “Racket speed” opened the Transnational Partners’ Meeting 5. The project partners discussed the progress of SPECIALRACKET, the upcoming activities and the final steps towards completing the project results and final report. During the theoretical part of Training session 3 the participants explored the inspiring history of the Academy through a guided visit led by Assoc. Prof. Vitanova and attended a valuable presentation by Prof. Dzhobova focused on adapted physical activity and inclusive sport programmes at NSA “Vasil Levski”.

The practical training sessions later took place at Akademik Stadium in Sofia, creating unforgettable moments of teamwork, motivation and joy. Under the guidance of coach Ioanna Karapetridou, coaches and participants engaged in inclusive badminton activities designed to encourage participation, confidence and active involvement of children and youth with special needs.

The atmosphere throughout the day clearly showed that sport has the power to connect people, break barriers and build a more inclusive society.

The event concluded with certificates and awards for all children and young people who participated with enthusiasm, dedication and smiles.

The project partners express their sincere gratitude to all parents, children and coaches for their active participation, support, positive energy and commitment to the mission of inclusive sport.

The SPECIALRACKET project is co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.