3X3 Urban Festival Training Activity
Utilizing Dynamic Sports
in Youth Work
Our organization recently had the pleasure of implementing the training activity 3×3 Urban Festival in Agros, Cyprus, as part of the “Utilization of Dynamic Sports in the Context of Youth Work” project. This initiative, funded by the EU’s Erasmus+ program and supervised by the local national agency IDEP Cyprus, brought together 27 participants, including 3 trainers and facilitators, for an enriching week-long experience.
The week-long outing was an immersive training activity designed to promote the informal learning of 3×3 basketball and other forms of 3-on-3 basketball as examples of dynamic sports. Participants delved into various aspects of the sport, from understanding the rules and coaching techniques to organizing a tournament. However, the event went beyond just sports; it celebrated the essence of a festival by incorporating elements of art, music, and fashion, truly embodying the inclusive spirit of 3×3 basketball.
A Festival for Everyone
One of the core principles of the 3×3 Urban Festival was inclusivity. 3×3 basketball is portrayed globally as a sport where there is a role for everyone, regardless of their skill set. Whether participants were seasoned players or had a passion for creativity in other forms, they found a place in this vibrant community. This inclusivity was reflected in the diverse mix of activities, which included lectures, discussions, workshops, and on-court sessions.
Engaging Learning Activities
Participants were tasked with two major challenges during the festival. The first task involved working in groups of five to create an imaginary event based on random parameters. This exercise fostered creativity, teamwork, and strategic planning. The second task was even more exciting: organizing a live event that included both the festival participants and over 30 guests from our organization in Nicosia. This event was a dynamic culmination of their week-long training, featuring young children and parents who benefit from our youth work programs.
A Diverse and Dedicated Group
The festival hosted participants from seven different countries: Cyprus, Portugal, Greece, Germany, Slovenia, Poland, and Serbia. This international mix brought a rich diversity of perspectives and experiences to the festival. While many participants had a background in basketball and sports, others came from various professional fields, including coaching, aiding disabled children, and working with youth with fewer opportunities.
Impact and Legacy
The 3×3 Urban Festival in Agros was more than just an event; it was a celebration of community, creativity, and the power of sports to bring people together. The skills and experiences gained by the participants will undoubtedly contribute to their personal and professional development, and the inclusive spirit of the festival will continue to inspire our future activities. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the EU initiative Erasmus+ and IDEP Cyprus for their support and supervision. We also thank the participants, trainers, and facilitators for their enthusiasm and commitment. Together, we have created lasting memories and laid the groundwork for future dynamic sports initiatives in youth work.
