Duration: 24 months
Role of OPES: Partner
Website: Champions Factory – IPSMRJ
The Project
IPSMRJ – Innovative Psychology Methods to Solve Mental Health Issues in Rhythmic Gymnastics is a European project dedicated to preventing and managing mental‑health challenges in rhythmic gymnastics.
The project is based on the awareness that young gymnasts may face significant pressures related to performance, body image, stress, and the demands of the discipline. For this reason, IPSMRJ works to strengthen athletes’ mental well‑being, promote teamwork, and develop good practices for coaches, sports psychologists, and educational figures involved in sports pathways.
The partnership brings together organisations from Bulgaria, Italy, Spain, and Ireland. OPES participates as the Italian partner, contributing to the development and dissemination of educational tools and innovative methodologies to address psychological difficulties that may arise in rhythmic gymnastics.
Objectives
The project aims to strengthen the capacity of sports clubs to prevent and manage mental‑health challenges, promoting a healthier approach to stress, body image, and sports pressure.
Its main objectives also include international cooperation among European organisations, the development of educational resources for coaches and psychologists, and the creation of practical tools to support athletes and sports environments.
Activities and Expected Results
Planned activities include the development of an educational programme, training for coaches, assistants, and managers, the creation of a multilingual handbook, and the dissemination of a Psychological Toolbox for Rhythmic Gymnasts, designed to extend the project’s impact beyond the partnership.
Partner
- Association Sports Club Rhythmic Gymnastics Bilyana (Bulgaria)
- OPES – Organizzazione Per l’Educazione allo Sport (Italy)
- Club Ritmico Colombino (Spain)
- Champions Factory Ireland Limited (Ireland)