Target Audience:
Jewish boys aged 11-18 residing in Salford, with a particular focus on those who are currently not actively involved in sports or recreational activities. This project recognizes that these boys may also be experiencing:
- Social isolation: Limited interaction with wider community groups.
- Academic pressure: Balancing religious and secular studies.
- Navigating cultural and developmental transitions: The challenges of adolescence within a specific cultural context.
- Large family dynamics: The unique pressures and opportunities of growing up in a large family.
- Impact of rising antisemitism: The emotional and social effects of prejudice.
Project Goal:
To introduce inactive Jewish boys in Salford to a diverse range of sports and recreational activities, fostering physical fitness, building self-confidence, and creating opportunities for new friendships and social connections within their community. This project aims to address the identified challenges by:
- Increasing social interaction: Providing a safe and inclusive space for boys to connect with peers.
- Promoting stress relief: Offering physical activity as a healthy outlet for academic and other pressures.
- Supporting positive identity development: Encouraging a sense of belonging and pride in their community.
- Building resilience: Developing coping skills through physical and social challenges.
Activities:
1] "Taste of Sport & Social Connection" Introductory Sessions:
Frequency: Twice a week, 1.5-hour sessions. (8-week cycle, then restart).
Description:
These sessions will offer taster experiences in various sports and recreational activities, with a strong emphasis on creating a welcoming and social atmosphere. Activities will be chosen to encourage interaction and teamwork. The sessions will follow an 8-week cycle, and then the cycle will restart.
Examples include:
Session 1 & 2: Squash, Table Tennis, and Pool (These activities are chosen as they can be played in pairs or small groups, promoting interaction from the start.)
Session 3 & 4: Cycling proficiency and local bike rides (Group activity, encourages conversation and shared experience, exploring the local Salford area.)
Session 5 & 6: Team sports like basketball or five-a-side football (Focus on fun, participation, and skill development, with modified rules to ensure everyone is involved and successful. Emphasis on teamwork and communication.)
Session 7 & 8: Outdoor adventure activities like orienteering or basic hiking (Promotes problem-solving, teamwork, and appreciation for the outdoors, fostering a sense of accomplishment.)
Aim:
To expose participants to new and enjoyable ways to be active, spark interest, and, crucially, facilitate the formation of new friendships and social bonds. Each session will include a short "icebreaker" or team-building activity at the beginning to encourage interaction.
2] Skill-Building & Teamwork Workshops:
Frequency: Weekly, 90-minute workshops with activities.
Description:
Focused sessions dedicated to developing fundamental skills in specific sports or activities identified as popular and beneficial from the introductory sessions. These workshops will also incorporate elements of teamwork and communication.
Examples:
Basketball: Drills focusing on passing, shooting, and defensive skills, followed by small-sided games emphasizing teamwork and strategy.
Football: Practice in dribbling, passing, shooting, and positional play, with a focus on collaborative play and communication on the field.ienteering: Map reading, compass skills, and route planning, with team-based challenges that require collaboration and problem-solving.
Aim:
To build competence and confidence in specific areas, encourage continued participation, and develop essential social skills.
3] Community Sports & Social Days:
Frequency: Quarterly, half-day events.
Description:
Fun, inclusive events bringing participants together for friendly competitions and games across various sports. These days will emphasize participation, teamwork, enjoyment, and community building. The events will include:
- A variety of sports and games suitable for all skill levels.
- Opportunities for participants to socialize and interact with each other.
- Food and refreshments in a relaxed setting.
Involvement of families and community members to foster a sense of belonging.
Aim:
To foster a strong sense of community, provide opportunities for boys from different backgrounds within the project to interact and build relationships through shared activity, and celebrate their achievements.
4] "Buddy Up" Active Mentorships:
Description: Pairing more experienced or enthusiastic participants with newer or less confident boys to encourage peer support, motivation for staying active, and social integration. This will be a more structured system, with:
- Initial matching based on interests and personality.
- Regular check-ins and activities for buddies to do together.
- Training for "buddy leaders" on how to provide effective support and encouragement.
Aim:
To create a supportive and inclusive environment, help boys build connections with peers who share an interest in being active, and provide positive role models.
Project is ONLY for Salford users through:
Targeted Local Advertising: Flyers and posters in Salford-based synagogues, community centers, schools, and relevant local businesses (e.g., kosher shops, community notice boards).
Salford WhatsApp Groups: Utilizing existing community WhatsApp groups to share information, registration details, and updates on activities.
Direct Email Communication: Building an email list through community contacts, sign-up sheets at local events, and partnerships with Salford Jewish schools.
Open Taster Sessions: Hosting free introductory sessions at accessible locations in Salford (e.g., local parks, community centers, school gyms) to allow potential participants to try out activities and meet other boys.
Collaborate with Salford Youth Organizations: Partnering with existing youth groups, schools (both secular and religious), and community centers in Salford to reach the target demographic and ensure cultural sensitivity.