Sportidealisten

How the Future of Sport Can Become Greener

by
Ioannis Konstantopoulos

How can we make the world of sports more sustainable?

In episode #50 of the Sport Views Podcast, we dive deep into one of the most important topics in today’s sports industry — sustainability. The guest is Ioannis Konstantopoulos, a leading voice in the global movement toward more responsible and environmentally conscious sport.

Ioannis holds a Master’s degree in Sports Administration, works as a sports and sustainability consultant, and is a member of the Sports Ecology Group. He is also the Founder and CEO of The Sports Footprint, an environmentally focused startup committed to implementing sustainable practices across the sports ecosystem while actively engaging fans, clubs, organizations, and decision-makers.

This episode from Sport Views Podcast is a must-listen for anyone working in sports management, sports events, sustainability strategy, club development, or innovation.

Episode Highlights

Here are some of the key moments and questions explored in the conversation:

  • 03:00 – First sports memory
  • 04:10 – How Ioannis got into sports and sustainability
  • 06:20 – Why sustainability matters in the sports world
  • 08:00 – Does sport have a better sustainability impact than other sectors?
  • 10:45 – Real examples of sustainability in sports today
  • 16:30 – What defines a “sustainable sport”?
  • 18:20 – The most common questions people ask about sustainability in sports
  • 25:20 – Ioannis shares three actionable tips for becoming more sustainable
  • 28:30 – Listener questions

This episode provides both strategic insights and concrete examples, making it highly valuable for clubs, federations, sportstech companies, event organizers, and anyone passionate about sustainability.

Why Sustainability Matters in Sport

As Ioannis explains during the episode, sport has a unique power to influence millions of people. With massive cultural reach and global fanbases, sport can drive meaningful change faster than many other industries. From climate action and waste management to transportation, facility operations, and community well-being, sustainability touches all corners of the sports world.

Sustainable sport is not only the future — it is an essential part of securing long-term growth, social impact, and credibility for the industry.

About Ioannis Konstantopoulos and The Sports Footprint

Ioannis Konstantopoulos
Instagram | Email | LinkedIn

The Sports Footprint
Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | Email | Website

The Sports Footprint works with sports organizations to integrate sustainability into daily operations, long-term strategy, and fan engagement. Their mission is simple: help sport reduce its environmental footprint while strengthening its social and economic impact.

Listen to the Full Episode

If you want to explore sustainability from a fresh angle and learn how sports can lead global change, this episode is for you. You can find the Sport Views Podcast on your favorite podcast platform — just search Sport Views Podcast.

Behind the Scenes and Contact

Have feedback or a guest recommendation?

Learn more about the podcast show here.

Top Questions to Ask in a Job Interview

by
question marks

When preparing for a job interview, most candidates focus on answering the recruiter’s questions. But a job interview is a two-way conversation. It is also your chance to evaluate the organization, the manager and the role, and to decide whether this opportunity fits your values and long-term ambitions.

At Sportidealisten, we support sports professionals and students in building sustainable careers in the sports industry. Based on our experience, these are the key questions you should ask in a job interview for a sports job.

1. What will be my main responsibilities and goals in the first 6–12 months?

Start by clarifying expectations. Ask what you will be responsible for and what the organisation expects you to achieve during your first months.

This gives you a concrete picture of the role, the level of responsibility, and how quickly they expect you to deliver results. It also helps you judge whether the role matches your skills and career stage.

2. What does a typical day and week look like in this role?

Once you know the goals, you need to understand the daily reality. Ask how your time is usually spent across tasks such as planning, meetings, administration, events, or direct work with athletes, clubs, or partners.

This helps you see whether the job is more strategic, operational, or a mix. It also reveals the pace of work and whether the role fits how you like to structure your days.

3. How is success measured and how do you give feedback?

This is a crucial but often forgotten question. You want to know how your performance will be evaluated, how often you receive feedback, and what support is offered if you face challenges.

In the sports industry, goals can range from ticket sales and participation numbers to community impact and athlete development. Understanding the metrics and feedback culture helps you decide if this is a place where you can grow.

4. How would you describe the internal culture and ways of working?

Company culture shapes your everyday experience. Ask how colleagues collaborate, how decisions are made, and how the organisation handles pressure around matches, events or campaigns.

Follow up with a request for concrete examples, such as how the team celebrates success or supports each other during busy periods. This helps you see if the culture aligns with your own values and preferred way of working.

5. Is the work based in the office, remote or hybrid?

The modern sports workplace can look very different depending on the organisation. Some clubs and federations want staff on-site, especially around events and match days, while others offer hybrid arrangements.

Clarify how often you are expected to be at the office, at arenas, or working from home. This gives you insight into work-life balance, commuting, and how the organisation handles communication and inclusion across locations.

6. Are there opportunities for professional development and learning?

If you want a long-term sports career, development opportunities are essential. Ask about internal training, external courses, conferences, mentorship programmes or the possibility to take on new responsibilities over time.

You can phrase it like this:
“I am very motivated by continuous learning. How do you support employees in developing new skills or moving into new responsibilities within the organisation?”

Their answer will show how seriously they invest in staff development.

7. Is the position based on fixed hours or trust-based working time?

Sports organisations often work outside traditional office hours due to training, events and match days. Ask whether the role follows fixed hours or is based on trust and flexibility.

Fixed hours give you clear boundaries, while trust-based time offers more freedom but also responsibility for planning your own schedule. Make sure the model fits your personal life and energy levels, especially if evenings and weekends are involved.

8. Do you have a collective agreement or similar employment benefits policy?

Employment conditions matter for your long-term security. Ask whether the organisation is covered by a collective agreement or uses an equivalent framework for things like sick pay, overtime compensation, pension and insurance.

If there is no collective agreement, ask whether they follow similar standards and whether you can see them documented. Clear and transparent policies are a strong sign that the employer takes responsibility for their staff.

9. What unique value do you think I could bring to your team if I join?

Finish by inviting the interviewer to reflect on your strengths. This question shows confidence, self-awareness and genuine interest in contributing to the organisation’s goals.

It can also give you helpful feedback on how they see your profile and whether they view you as a strong match. This information is valuable both if you get the job and if you continue your search elsewhere.

Final thoughts from Sportidealisten

Asking the right questions in a job interview helps you make an informed decision about your next step in the sports industry. It shows that you take your career seriously, that you care about sustainability in your work life, and that you are looking for the right match rather than just any job.

Sportidealisten offers career coaching, interview preparation and advisory services for sports professionals, students and organisations. If you want support in preparing for interviews, evaluating job offers or planning your next move in the sports world, we are here to help.

Learn more and contact us to build a successful and sustainable career in sports.

From Sierra Leone Streets to Global Football – The Remarkable Story of Alhaji Kamara

by
Alhaji Kamara at Randers FC

In this two-part episode of Sport Views Podcast, we dive deep into the incredible journey of Alhaji Kamara, a professional football player from Sierra Leone whose story is nothing short of extraordinary.

A Journey of Passion, Resilience, and Unstoppable Spirit

In this two-part episode of Sport Views Podcast, we dive deep into the incredible journey of Alhaji Kamara, a professional football player from Sierra Leone whose story is nothing short of extraordinary.

From playing barefoot on the streets to representing top clubs across continents — Kamara’s path is a true testament to perseverance, hope, and the power of believing in yourself, even when the world tells you it’s impossible.

Diagnosed with a defective heart and banned from playing football in Europe, Kamara defied all odds to continue his career around the world. Today, he’s still playing the game he loves — and inspiring thousands along the way.

🎙️ Part 1: The Dream Begins in Sierra Leone

In Episode #44, Alhaji takes us back to where it all started — the dusty streets of Sierra Leone, where football was more than a game; it was a dream of freedom and opportunity.

Together with his friends, he formed a small team called “Young Lions”, which became the launchpad for his professional career. His talent soon caught the eye of FC Kallon, one of the biggest clubs in Sierra Leone, leading to his first professional contract.

Highlights include:

  • 3:00 – His first sports memory and inspiration to play
  • 5:35 – The creation of Young Lions
  • 11:40 – Getting the ticket to Europe through FC Kallon
  • 14:30 – First move abroad: Sweden
  • 19:40 – Becoming Swedish Champion and a move to Malaysia
  • 29:00 – The life-changing moment: discovering a heart defect and being banned from playing football

💬 “When they told me I couldn’t play again, I didn’t believe it. Football is my life.”

⚽ Part 2: Overcoming Tragedy and Returning Stronger

In Episode #45, the story continues with even more emotional depth. After moving abroad for a fresh start, Kamara faced unimaginable loss when his brother passed away on the football pitch.

Yet, his story didn’t end there — it evolved into one of resilience, healing, and redemption. Kamara shares what it took to find joy in football again, return to Europe, and keep inspiring others who face similar obstacles.

Highlights include:

  • 44:00 – Starting a new life and career abroad
  • 58:00 – Losing his brother during a football match
  • 1:07:00 – Playing again after his brother’s death
  • 1:12:00 – Returning to European football
  • 1:18:30 – Answering listeners’ questions

💬 “Football gave me everything. Even after losing so much, it’s what keeps me alive.”

🌍 A Global Story with Universal Lessons

Alhaji Kamara’s journey is not just about football — it’s about human resilience, mental strength, and the courage to never give up. His experiences offer a powerful reminder to athletes, fans, and professionals alike: that passion and purpose can overcome any limitation.

🔗 Listen to Both Episodes

👉 Episode #44 – Alhaji Kamara: Professional football player with a defective heart (Part 1)
👉 Episode #45 – Alhaji Kamara: Professional football player with a defective heart (Part 2)

Follow Alhaji Kamara on Instagram and Facebook.

🎧 About Sport Views Podcast

The Sport Views Podcast takes you behind the scenes of the sports world through deep and personal conversations with athletes, leaders, and innovators. The podcast brings unheard stories that inspire the next generation of sports professionals.

Follow on Instagram: @sportviewspodcast

Europe Smash 2025 Generates Strong Tourism Impact in Malmö — Proud to Support a Successful Event

by
Inside Baltiska Hallen arena during SMASH 2025

Strong results for Swedish Table Tennis and Malmö tourism

The Svenska Bordtennisförbundet (SBTF) has released new insights from the Europe Smash 2025 tournament in Malmö, showing impressive visitor and tourism results. According to SBTF’s report, “Stark besöksstatistik för Europe Smash i Malmö”, the event attracted a majority of visitors from outside the city — 71 % came from other municipalities, while 29 % were Malmö residents.
👉 Read the full SBTF article here.

These results highlight how international sports events can bring not just sporting excitement, but also measurable economic and social value to host cities.

Tourism-Economic Evaluation: Key figures

The full analysis, “Turistekonomisk utvärdering – Europe Smash Malmö 2025”, conducted by Upplevelseinstitutet, reveals several key takeaways (download the report here):

  • 71 % of the audience came from outside Malmö municipality
  • 542 visitors (aged 15+) were interviewed during 27 Aug – 17 Sep 2025
  • Overnight visitors: average stay 4 days / 3.2 nights
  • Average spending: SEK 5 938 per overnight visitor; SEK 1 844 for day visitors
  • Total tourism turnover: ≈ SEK 29.1 million
  • Visitor satisfaction: NKI 86 / 100 and NPS 73

These numbers clearly demonstrate how a well-planned sports event can generate substantial benefits for local hospitality, retail, and transport sectors.

Why impact measurement matters in sports

At Sportidealisten, our mission is to help sports federations, clubs, and event organizers maximize their economic, social, and environmental impact.
The Europe Smash 2025 case is a perfect example of how strategic planning, data collection, and evaluation can provide clear evidence of success and long-term value for stakeholders.

We are grateful to have been part of this assignment alongside SBTF and local partners, contributing to a project that strengthened both Swedish Table Tennis and Malmö’s position as a leading sports city.

From Malmö to your next event: let’s build lasting impact

Now that these results are public, we encourage other sports federations and event hosts to take the next step — to measure, prove, and communicate the value their events create.

Whether it’s a national championship, a youth festival, or an international tournament, Sportidealisten can help you:

  • Develop a clear event planning
  • Conduct build up and wrap up procedures
  • Present results that attract sponsors, media, and funding

If your organization is planning an upcoming event and wants to show measurable return-on-investment (ROI) and sustainable community benefits, we’d love to collaborate.

📩 Get in touch with us at sportidealisten.se to explore how we can help you build a successful and sustainable event legacy.

🔗 Useful links

Discover the potential of your brain

by
discover the potential of your brain

Can you train your mind like you train your body? And how can an athlete develop a winning brain?

We got Thomas and Sachin from CURVEX in an episode from Sport Views Podcast. The COO and the scientific director have a long experience from both playing sports as well as studying mental health and more specific cognitive neuroscience. They have developed a headset in order to train and control your brain like you train your body. CURVEX want to put an increased focus on your mental well-being, and thus give you a tool that can help prevent stress and other mental problems in your everyday life.

Here are some highlights from the conversation:

4.30 – What is CURVEX?

7.30 – The brain and mental health and the Olympics?

11.50 – Mental health, why now?

15.15 – How to help youth with mental health?

18.00 – Avicii Arena and school’s awareness

24.20 – Sports benefits and challenges, should sports clubs do anything?

29.00 – How can athletes develop a winning brain?

36.45 – What is a flow state?

42.50 – What is neuroscience?

46.35 – Tips on free resources for mental health

Contact info CURVEX

⁠LinkedIn⁠ | ⁠Website⁠

Want to join behind the scenes?

Join us and Sport Views Podcast behind the scenes on Instagram, find them @⁠sportviewspodcast⁠.

Find the podcast at your favorite podcast platform, search Sport Views Podcast.

What is fan engagement and how to apply it with the fan engagement expert

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what is fan engagement and how to apply it with the fan engagement expert

What is fan engagement and why should all sports work with it every week?

Today’s post and inspiration from Sport Views Podcast is Bas Schnater, who got hooked into fan engagement at a conference in Australia and is nowadays​ one of the best-known experts on fan engagement and CRM in Europe. He basically applies data analytics & science to improve fan engagement and to improve revenues in sports clubs. He has been and still is a consultant for football leagues throughout Europe and the UEFA, as well as a guest speaker for various educational institutions. Here are some highlights of the show:

4.40 – He got into fan engagement at a conference in Australia

9.55 – Got a job at AZ, but how?

16.10 – Data and methods you need to know

23.25 – What is fan engagement?

28.21 – Walk the fan journey

31.40 – Listeners questions

46.20 – How to work with fan engagement with minimal resources

55.40 – Data maturity model

1.05.40 – Fan engagement with NFTs?

1.13.40 – Trends

Contact info Bas Schnater

⁠LinkedIn⁠ | ⁠Twitter⁠ | ⁠Website⁠

Want to join us behind the scenes?

Join us and our guests behind the scenes on Instagram, find us @⁠sportviewspodcast⁠.

If you got any feedback or want to recommend any future guests feel free to let us know on Instagram or send us an email at ⁠info@sportviewspodcast.se⁠

Find our podcast at your favorite podcast platform, search Sport Views Podcast.

Learn how to negotiate and why a multipotentialite is your potential for everything

by
learn how to negotiate and why a multipotentialite is your potential for everything

Let us introduce you to Alex Sinatra. She grew up as a gymnast and transitioned from being an athlete to working with them. She has a double bachelor’s degree in marketing and law, and has been a counsel for different sports businesses and teams.

Today she is the CEO & Founder of Your Potential for Everything, a strategic sports consulting business specializing in helping women & women-owned businesses in the sports & esports industries gain clarity, confidence, & grow their businesses.

If you want to craft innovative and proactive plans in the sports industry and want to get great negotiation tips, then you better sit down and be ready to take notes when we talk with Alex Sinatra.

Here are some highlights:

3.15 – Who is Alex Sinatra, depends on the audience

4.15 – What is a multipotentialite?

9.00 – Adopting to different cultures

11.00 – Are there differences between gymnastics and rodeo

14.10 – Early specializing vs. late specializing in sports

19.00 – Why transitioning from gymnastics to diving is frightening

24.40 – What was it like to become a sports agent?

27.05 – Getting a mentor is vital for networking and work and how to ask for help

35.43 – Negotiation skills, what to think about

48.25 – Alex best career advice

52.30 – Why you should listen to her podcast

Contact info Alex Sinatra

⁠LinkedIn⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠Twitter⁠ | ⁠Website⁠

Want to join behind the scenes?

Join the podcast and their guests behind the scenes on Instagram, find us @⁠sportviewspodcast⁠.

If you got any feedback or want to recommend any future guests feel free to let them know on Instagram or send them an email at ⁠info@sportviewspodcast.se.

Find the podcast at your favorite podcast platform, search Sport Views Podcast.

Exploring innovations in sports and life as a PhD student

by
exploring innovations in sports and life as a phd student

It is time for an insightful conversation in English about sports innovation ecosystems and why teams or leagues should focus on creating innovative products, services, and processes.

In this interview from Sport Views Podcast, we will listen to the Ph.D. student, Benjamin Kinsky. He is fascinated by innovations in sports and related startup initiatives and ventures and he is an expert in Open innovation in sports business. They also talk about his journey from a football career to studying innovation in sports. And there are of course much more, here are some highlights:

8.40 – The difference between Bachelors and Masters

15.40 – What is it like to do a Ph.D. and why Benjamin do it

24.50 – What is an innovative ecosystem in sports?

29.00 – Good practices in Europe

48.00 – Key for innovative teams

52.50 – Best career advice

54.00 – Where are we 10 years from now?

Benjamin’s tips of club to check out in Germany: ⁠TC Freisenbruch⁠

Benjamin’s tips on good resources: ⁠EPSI⁠, ⁠SportsTechX⁠

Question to the audience:

Have you done any innovative projects? Let Benjamin know!

Contact info Benjamin Kinsky

⁠LinkedIn⁠

Want to join behind the scenes?

Join the podcast and their guests behind the scenes on Instagram, find us @⁠sportviewspodcast⁠.

If you got any feedback or want to recommend any future guests feel free to let them know on Instagram or send them an email at ⁠info@sportviewspodcast.se.

Find the podcast at your favorite podcast platform, search Sport Views Podcast.

How to help athletes to take control as a professional coach

by
how to help athletes to take control as a professional coach

We are proud sponsors of the Sport Views Podcast. And we will start sharing the international episodes here which align with our values of being inclusive and sharing our passion of knowledge in sports. First out is an expert in sports marketing and sports communication and a former sports agent.

In this interview Sports View Podcast will talk to Caxton Njuki, an expert in developing athletes, and communication and motivation. They talk more about his journey from Uganda to a talented tennis player and his career change to becoming an entrepreneur and helping many athletes find their true potential. And there are of course much more, here are some highlights:

7.00 – The decision between football and tennis

20.00 – The career change becoming a professional coach

29.30 – The importance of pedagogical teaching

28.57 – Different needs targeting male and female fans

35.00 – The memorable sports object

41.00 – TIps about time management or as Caxton says, “life management”

54.00 – Creating a good day

Question to the audience:

Are you living your dream?

If you would die tomorrow, would you be happy with your life so far?

Books Caxton recommends:

Open by Andre Agassi

Skapa talang 2.0 by Kristian Persson, Peter Svensson

Contact info Caxton Njuki

⁠⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠ | ⁠Twitter⁠

Join Sport Views Podcast and their guests behind the scenes on Instagram, find them @⁠⁠sportviewspodcast⁠⁠.

If you got any feedback or want to recommend any future guests feel free to let them know on Instagram or send them an email at ⁠info@⁠sportviewspodcast.se⁠

Learn more about the podcast and suggest guest and topics to them at ⁠sportviewspodcast.se⁠

Find the podcast at your favorite podcast platform, search Sport Views Podcast.

The key to successful sport organizations and the effect of role models

by
Marisa shares about her key to successful sport organizations and the effect of role models

We are proud sponsors of the Sport Views Podcast. And we will start sharing the international episodes here which align with our values of being inclusive and sharing our passion of knowledge in sports. First out is an expert in sports marketing and sports communication and a former sports agent.

In this interview Sports View Podcast will talk to Marisa Reich, an expert in sports marketing and communications, with a focus on culture change and diversity. You will learn about her athletic career without role models, how Marisa became an agent, and we will also talk about sports dilemmas with the lack of equality. And there are of course much more, here are some highlights:

9.19 – The athletic career and going from throwing a ball to a javelin

14.00 – First movers and role models in sports

27.27 – Media and sponsors lack of investment to women’s sport

28.57 – Different needs targeting male and female fans

38.18 – Values you learn from sports

41.08 – First steps towards diversity in sports

49.25 – The memorable sports object

54.32 – Advice to get into sports

Contact info Marisa Reich

⁠LinkedIn⁠

Contact info She Sports Switzerland

⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠ | ⁠Twitter⁠

Want to join us behind the scenes?

Join us and Sport Views Podcast guests behind the scenes on Instagram, find them @⁠⁠sportviewspodcast⁠⁠.

If you got any feedback or want to recommend any future guests feel free to let them know on Instagram or send them an email at ⁠info@⁠sportviewspodcast.se⁠

Find the podcast at your favorite podcast platform, search Sport Views Podcast or direct on WWW here.

Fritidskortet – A Closer Look: Challenges, Criticism, and What Clubs Should Prepare For

by
kids playing sports

Introduction
When we recently introduced the Leisure Card (Fritidskortet) and explained how sports clubs can use it, the reaction was largely enthusiastic. The idea—giving every child aged 8–16 up to SEK 2,000 per year for organized activities—sounds like a win for inclusion and youth sports.

But since then, several platforms and experts, including Svenskalag’s recent article, have highlighted potential pitfalls. Here’s a balanced look at the concerns being raised, and what your club or federation can do now.

Key Concerns Being Raised

IssueWhy It MattersContext
Unclear rules and timingLagrådet has called the law “rudimentary” with many details still to come in summer 2025 regulations. Clubs can’t fully prepare without clarity.Lagrådet, media reports
Administrative burdenSmaller associations fear extra work: registering, verifying sessions, reporting to authorities. Volunteers may be stretched thin.Svenskalag blog, RF discussions
Digital ecosystem gapMajor club systems—Laget.se, Svenskalag, SportAdmin, 360Player—are not yet integrated with the Leisure Card. Unless the state funds these integrations, the cost will fall on clubs.Svenskalag commentary
Risk of misuseWeak controls could let non-serious actors register, risking fraud or wasted funds.SvD, Försäkringskassan warnings
Equity issuesThe card doesn’t solve transport costs, facility shortages, or support for children with disabilities—barriers may persist even with funding.SVT, local news
StigmatizationThe higher tier (SEK 2,000) tied to housing allowance may feel stigmatizing for families.Accent magazine

Opportunities Still Worth Embracing

Despite the criticism, the Leisure Card still presents:

  • A real recruitment opportunity for clubs to welcome new children.
  • Inclusion benefits for families who otherwise couldn’t afford fees.
  • Potential revenue that can strengthen grassroots sports—if the system works well.

What Clubs and Federations Can Do Now

  1. Stay informed – Follow updates from Riksidrottsförbundet, Försäkringskassan, and your club system provider.
  2. Voice your concerns – Provide feedback to federations, municipalities, or directly to the government. Collective input can influence funding for integrations or reduced admin.
  3. Plan for admin support – Map out who will handle Leisure Card tasks and whether you need shared resources.
  4. Communicate with members – Be transparent about what you know and what’s still uncertain.
  5. Be ready to adapt – Prepare flexible programs (e.g., six-session starter packs) so you can benefit once the system goes live.

Final Thoughts

Fritidskortet is still a promising idea for making sports and cultural activities more accessible—but its success will depend on execution. Clubs should prepare for both the opportunities and the challenges. And if you haven’t yet read our full guide on how the Leisure Card works and how to use it, check out our original post here for the basics.

👉 Need strategic advice or a communication plan for your club? Contact Sportidealisten—we can help you navigate both the possibilities and the pitfalls of Fritidskortet.

Contact us

The Leisure Card (Fritidskortet) – What It Is and How Sports Clubs Can Benefit

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the leisure card (fritidskortet) – what it is and how sports clubs can benefit

Starting in September 2025, Sweden launches the Leisure Card (Fritidskortet) – a national initiative that gives children and youth between the ages of 8 and 16 financial support to participate in sports, culture, and outdoor activities. For sports clubs and federations, this creates a unique opportunity to attract new members, strengthen community engagement, and secure additional income. Here’s everything you need to know about what the Leisure Card is, how it works, and how your club can benefit from it.

What is the Leisure Card?

The Leisure Card is a digital support system introduced by the Swedish government to make organized activities more accessible to all children. Each child between 8 and 16 years old will receive:

  • SEK 500 per year (for all households)
  • SEK 2,000 per year (for households that received housing allowance the previous year)

The funds can be used for organized, leader-led activities within sports, culture, and outdoor recreation. The main goal is to lower financial barriers and promote an active and inclusive lifestyle.

How Does It Work?

  • Digital format: Managed via fritidskortet.se. Parents log in, see the available balance, and pay directly for approved activities.
  • Activity requirements: Must be leader-led and take place at least six times within a maximum of six months.
  • Validity: Funds apply to the calendar year but can be used until November 30. They cannot be rolled over into the next year.
  • Payments and reporting: The Swedish E-Health Agency manages payments and reporting to ensure compliance.

Benefits for Sports Clubs and Federations

  1. Easier recruitment – more children can try out sports without financial barriers.
  2. Increased inclusion – families with limited financial resources can participate more easily.
  3. Strengthened finances – every child using the card brings additional revenue to the club.
  4. Positive branding – positioning your club as open, inclusive, and accessible.

How to Register Your Club for the Leisure Card

To receive payments through the Leisure Card, your club must:

  1. Register with the Swedish Social Insurance Agency (Försäkringskassan).
  2. Ensure your activities meet the criteria (leader-led, minimum of six sessions).
  3. Communicate actively that your club is registered and accepts the Leisure Card.
  4. Set up routines for administration, payments, and reporting.

Tips: Make the Leisure Card Part of Your Strategy

  • Promote actively: Highlight on your website and social media that your club accepts the Leisure Card.
  • Offer starter packages: Design programs or courses that match the criteria.
  • Collaborate locally: Work with municipalities, cultural schools, or other clubs to maximize outreach.
  • Be flexible: Create options such as short training cycles, mixed groups, or combination programs.

Challenges to Keep in Mind

  • Administration: Smaller clubs may experience increased workload, so having clear routines is key.
  • Additional costs: The card does not cover extra expenses such as transport or special equipment – consider how your club can support these children.

Conclusion

The Leisure Card represents a great chance for sports clubs and federations in Sweden to grow and make a real difference. By joining the program, your club can attract more children, strengthen finances, and contribute to equal opportunities in sports and recreation.

👉 Want help building a plan for how your club can take full advantage of the Leisure Card? Contact Sportidealisten – we guide you all the way.

Next discussion

There are more to this discussion and we have posted another perspective regarding this aspect. Head over to this section.

Behind the Smashes: Sportidealisten’s Role at Europe Smash Sweden 2025

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behind the smashes sportidealisten’s role at europe smash sweden 2025

When Europe hosted its very first WTT Grand Smash tournament, Sportidealisten was there – not in the spotlight, but making sure everything behind the scenes ran smoothly. From signage and logistics to volunteer coordination and final teardown, our team played a key role in ensuring Europe Smash Sweden 2025 became a world-class success. Here’s our story, what we contributed, and the lessons that can inspire future sports events.

What Europe Smash Means for European Table Tennis

Held at Malmö Arena from August 14 to 24, 2025, Europe Smash Sweden made history as the first-ever WTT Grand Smash event in Europe. The tournament joined Singapore, China, and the U.S. in the elite Grand Smash series – elevating table tennis on a truly global stage.

The event was also historic for Sweden: superstar Truls Möregårdh became the first European player to win a WTT Grand Smash singles title, defeating world number one Lin Shidong in front of a roaring home crowd. Beyond the results, the event celebrated Europe’s rich table tennis heritage and signaled a new era for the sport on the continent.

What We Did – Making It All Work, Behind the Scenes

At Sportidealisten, our focus was to make sure all the moving parts worked seamlessly:

  • Venue setup – Ensured signage was placed strategically and all areas functioned as planned.
  • Transport coordination – Supported smooth transfers for players and VIP guests.
  • Facility upkeep – Cleaned and prepared ping-pong tables between matches.
  • Volunteer management – Trained and guided volunteers to perform confidently.
  • Real-time problem-solving – Solved logistical challenges as they happened.
  • Event teardown – Dismantled and cleared everything after the final match.

The Impact – What We Contributed

  • Uninterrupted competition flow – Matches started on time and ran smoothly.
  • Elevated audience experience – Every detail contributed to a professional and enjoyable event for fans, media, and athletes.
  • Empowered volunteers – With clear instructions and support, volunteers became a vital force behind the event.
  • Operational resilience – Challenges were solved quickly, avoiding stress and delays.

Key Learnings from a Grand Smash Event

  1. Attention to detail matters – Small operational elements define big success.
  2. Volunteers are invaluable – Training, communication, and gratitude empower them to shine.
  3. Flexibility builds success – Being adaptive keeps the event running under pressure.
  4. Collaboration drives outcomes – Working with Svenska Bordtennisförbundet, World Table Tennis, and Europe Smash was key to success.

Watch Behind the Scenes

To really feel the atmosphere, check out our behind-the-scenes video on Instagram. From setup to takedown, you’ll see the dedication and teamwork that powered the event.

In summary: Being part of Europe Smash Sweden 2025 was a highlight for Sportidealisten. It showed how professionalism, operational excellence, and teamwork can elevate major sports events. We’re proud of the role we played – and we’re ready to bring this same expertise to your next event.

👉 Get in touch if your club, federation, or organization wants world-class support for your sports events.

Revenue Sharing in College Sports: A Global Game-Changer

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revenue sharing in college sports a global game changer

From July 1, 2025, U.S. colleges will be allowed to pay student-athletes directly. What does this mean for the future of sports, education, and international talent?

College athletics in the United States is entering a transformative era. Following the final approval of the House v. NCAA settlement, Division I schools will now be able to directly compensate student-athletes — up to $20.5 million annually per institution. This new system marks a dramatic shift from the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policy introduced in 2021, which allowed athletes to earn income through endorsements but not from their schools.

Full Revenue Sharing on the Horizon

Top programs such as Alabama and Colorado have announced plans to fully embrace the $20.5 million cap. Alabama’s Athletic Director Greg Byrne confirmed the school will both fund full revenue sharing and expand scholarships while maintaining their NIL initiatives.

Colorado’s AD Rick George outlined a proportional model, where each sport receives funds based on the revenue it generates. Student-athletes will enter licensing agreements with the university’s athletic department. Notably, Colorado recently dismantled its NIL collective in preparation for this shift — a move other schools may follow.

Allocation Models: Football Takes the Lead

Before the settlement’s finalization, Texas and Texas Tech detailed how they intend to distribute the funds:

  • Texas: 75% to football, 15% to men’s basketball, 5% to women’s basketball, and the remaining 5% to other sports.
  • Texas Tech: Similar distribution, though slightly different splits between basketball programs.

This model is expected to be widely adopted, particularly by schools where football dominates the revenue landscape. However, smaller sports like softball, especially successful programs, may receive increased support based on performance and visibility.

Not All Schools Are Equal

While Power 4 conferences may find it feasible to distribute $20.5 million, smaller conferences face constraints. The American Athletic Conference (AAC) has set a requirement to distribute at least $10 million over the next three years, with expectations that many schools will exceed this goal early.

Big East schools — many of which don’t sponsor football — could see an advantage in reallocating larger portions to basketball or Olympic sports, potentially fostering more balanced athletic departments.

Trend Analysis: What Does This Mean for U.S. Sports and Education?

This shift is more than financial — it represents a redefinition of the student-athlete model. Revenue sharing aligns college athletics more closely with professional sports while still rooted in education. Here are key trends to watch:

1. Increased Global Recruitment

As colleges begin paying athletes directly, the U.S. becomes an even more attractive destination for international talent. Talented players from Europe, Africa, and beyond may opt for U.S. college programs to combine higher education with a paid athletic career.

2. Changing Athlete Expectations

Student-athletes may begin to demand contracts, agents, and guarantees similar to pro athletes. The amateur status of college sports could soon be a relic of the past.

3. Educational Shift

Colleges will need to develop better support systems to manage athletes’ dual roles as students and employees. Expect growth in sports law, athlete wellness programs, and financial literacy training.

Should Europe Follow the U.S. Model?

Many in Europe are asking whether this model should be adopted locally. Could revenue sharing exist in European university sports?

✅ Potential Benefits

  • Talent Retention: Athletes may stay in Europe rather than going to the U.S.
  • Professionalization: Could improve the quality and seriousness of university sports.
  • New Funding Models: Universities could attract more sponsorship and ticket revenue.

❌ Possible Drawbacks

  • Cultural Differences: European sports systems are not built around universities.
  • Financial Imbalance: Only a handful of universities may afford such systems.
  • Academic Integrity: The focus could shift from learning to earning.

Conclusion: A New Era with Global Impact

The U.S. revenue sharing model in college sports is likely to spark global discussions on how athletes are compensated while pursuing higher education. For Europe, the question isn’t just “Should we follow?” — it’s Can we adapt this model in a way that aligns with our own values and systems?

Unlocking the Future of Sports Careers: Try Out COMPATH’s Digital Competence Hub

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unlocking the future of sports careers try out compath's digital competence hub

We’re excited to share a major milestone in our journey to empower the next generation of sports professionals. Just last week, we concluded the final meeting of our Erasmus+ Sports Project, COMPATH, in Oslo, Norway 🇳🇴 — and with it, we proudly launched our cutting-edge platform: the Digital Competence Hub on Sport Innovation.

Introducing the COMPATH Portal: A Game-Changer for Young Athletes

After three years of collaboration, research, and development, the COMPATH portal is finally here. This unique platform is designed to equip young student-athletes (ages 16–25) with the technological and professional skills needed to thrive in the modern sports industry.

From artificial intelligence to wearable technology, drone systems to the use of big data in sports, the portal features 12 specialized modules tailored to today’s most in-demand skills.

And now, you have the chance to be one of the first to experience it.

Are You Ready to Become a Future Sports Leader?

If you’re passionate about sports and want to explore the opportunities that technology and innovation bring, this is your moment.

🚀 Whether you’re dreaming of a career in sports tech, management, data analysis, or entrepreneurship, the COMPATH platform is your launchpad.

💪 Apply now to gain early access and get a head start on building the skills that sports organizations across Europe are looking for.

Apply for early access here

About the COMPATH Project

COMPATH (Promoting Employability of Young Student-Athletes through ‘‘Competence Hub’’ on Sport Innovation) is an Erasmus+ co-funded initiative that promotes the educational, professional, and personal development of young athletes. It aims to contribute to quality employment, digital literacy, and innovation in the sports industry.

Aligned with the EU’s strategic priorities on sport and employability, COMPATH supports smart, sustainable, and inclusive growth by delivering reusable, transferable, and scalable digital resources and tools.

Our Core Objectives

  • Develop cutting-edge educational resources focused on sport-specific technology, 21st-century skills, entrepreneurship, and digital literacy.
  • Launch a digital Competence Hub to increase the employability of young sportspeople through innovative, gamified learning experiences.
  • Build a European community of sport innovation, fostering collaboration, creativity, and career development across borders.

Project Deliverables

✔️ Training Modules: Practical, sports-oriented technology and 21st-century competence training designed for young student-athletes.

✔️ Facilitator Toolkits: Resource-rich guides to support coaches, educators, and mentors.

✔️ Digital Innovation Hub: A gamification-based platform offering engaging, interactive content to build real-world skills for tomorrow’s sports leaders.

Be Among the First to Join the Future of Sports Innovation

Don’t miss this opportunity to develop your digital edge in sports. Whether you’re an aspiring coach, data analyst, sport tech entrepreneur, or elite athlete, the COMPATH platform is built for you.

🔗 Apply now for early access and become a pioneer in sports innovation!
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