The European Olympic Academies proudly highlights the recent impactful initiatives led by the Albanian Olympic Academy in collaboration with the Albanian National Olympic Committee (KOKSH). These efforts underscore the Academy’s dedication to fostering a healthier, more inclusive sporting environment while addressing critical issues that resonate within and beyond the realm of sports.
Conference on Mental Health in Sport: A Step Toward Safer and Healthier Athletes
On 24 October 2024, the Albanian Olympic Academy, supported by KOKSH, hosted the “Mental Health in Sport” Conference, bringing together key stakeholders to address the growing awareness of mental health issues in sports.
The event began with a roundtable discussion involving the Athletes’ Commission, focusing on safe sports practices and the significance of mental health for athletes. NOA Director Enkelejda Caushi emphasised the necessity of such initiatives, while KOKSH President Fidel Ylli called for greater attention to the mental health needs of athletes in his address.
The conference featured two engaging panels:
- Panel 1: Experts in sports psychology and trauma physiotherapy shared their insights into mental health challenges faced by athletes.
- Panel 2: Elite athletes, coaches, and the Chair of the Athletes’ Commission engaged directly with the audience, discussing real-life experiences and strategies for managing mental health. Athletics record holder Luiza Gega shared her personal journey, highlighting the challenges she has overcome.
The conference concluded with an interactive session where athletes, coaches, and university students completed a mental health questionnaire, sparking valuable dialogue on how to support athletes’ mental well-being better.
Pink October: Empowering Women Through Awareness and Action
Continuing its commitment to societal impact, the Albanian Olympic Academy also organised the “Pink October” campaign, dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer and empowering women in sports.
This initiative included a conference featuring experts, psychologists, and medical professionals, aimed at educating Physical Education teachers and sports community members about the importance of early detection and prioritising women’s health.
The campaign culminated in an inspiring Olympic Park event, where professional instructors’ yoga sessions symbolised wellness and unity under the iconic Pink Ribbon emblem.
The European Olympic Academies commends the Albanian Olympic Academy for its dedication to these meaningful causes and contributing to creating a safer and healthier sports culture.
