Adventures in Spain with sports activities

My most interesting exchange project, in which I took part happened in autumn of 2016 with a number of young people. The project was called “Sports and culture for all”, it was an Erasmus+ youth exchange project to get to know Corfball – a popular sport in Spain. This type of sport is popular for them because it is integrated in different youth centres where young people from different risk groups reside. By such an informal method, young people at risk are educated about the importance and necessity of physical activity and are “rescued” from the streets where they are at risk of being exposed to crime.

Our organisation took part in all activities with interest and enthusiasm because we hadn't heard of many activities they showed to us. We learned more about the current situation of the Barcelona and Badalon youth centres and the introduction of the sport, not only in youth centres, but also in pre-school schools.

With the rest of the young people from our organization we explained the types of activities and good practices of youth centres in Latvia for the rest of the project; I remember most were intrigued by the increased involvement of youth councils and youth in public participation. We shared different methods and activities to be used in day-to-day work.

Of course, there was no informal rest – we hiked in the cliffs, we enjoyed the sun on the Balearearic Sea coast, and we enjoyed Spanish dishes in bars and beautiful restaurants. I still remember our member Raivo tasting the octopus for the first time and failing to chew the seafood properly. 

This project has left me with the most memory for a number of reasons: I flied for the first time, this was the longest project abroad, and I was in the working group when the project was being formed. During the exchange project, I gained a variety of knowledge – added communication skills, because not all participants had good English; I certainly learned patience because the Spanish temperament and lifestyle were quite peaceful and unhurried; as well as time management and planning to catch up with all the lessons and other technical specifications.

This project was really interesting and useful, where I acquired a variety of knowledge and acknowledged that living in such a small country as Latvia is actually an opportunity to grow and be better. 
 

Updated on Marți, 17/02/2026