Български
SPORT
BSDA presented good practices for inclusion through sport
03.12.2025
On December 3, 2025, on the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Bulgarian sports development association (BSDA) took part in the National Forum "Open Dialogue for Inclusive Sport: Together Towards a Society That Includes Everyone", organized by the National Sports Academy "Vasil Levski". The event brought together institutions, sports clubs, academic experts and sector organizations to discuss policies, effective practices and challenges in the field of adapted physical activity in Bulgaria.
The agenda included two panels dedicated to national policies and real-life examples, as well as an open discussion focused on formulating common priorities for the sustainable development of sports for people with disabilities.
During the presentation of the organization’s activities, Ivaylo Zdravkov, Board member of BSDA, highlighted the 15-year contribution to developing inclusive sports practices in Bulgaria and Europe. The organization has been working systematically to create visibility, opportunities and international platforms for the participation of people with intellectual disabilities – an area in which access is still limited. BSDA showcased several key European initiatives that build upon efforts for social inclusion through sport:
SMILE: The project was recognized by SALTO for its contribution to "competence development" following the organization of an international camp that demonstrated the importance of sports mobility for personal growth, independence and European identity among participants.
#BeInclusiveWaterPolo: BSDA presented the results of the first international adapted water polo tournament for people with intellectual disabilities. The Bulgarian team, made up of participants from the BSDA-developed program, achieved an impressive 12:6 victory against Croatia – a strong example of how an adapted sport can build self-esteem, confidence and sense of belonging.
#BeActiveTogether: An initiative aimed at encouraging physical activity, social interaction and inclusion through sport, involving participation in international camps and training activities.
SPORT – Strengthening Potential Through Opportunities, Respect and Team Spirit: A project that expands the network of inclusive sports activities through international events, training sessions and support for young people with intellectual disabilities.
BSDA emphasized that sport is a powerful tool for developing independence, courage and social skills. International sports mobility programs enable participants to travel, communicate with peers from other countries and strengthen their identity as both Bulgarian and European citizens. The organization highlighted that inclusion through sport is essential for the physical and emotional well-being of people with intellectual disabilities, while also helping build more tolerant and supportive communities. BSDA expressed gratitude to the National Sports Academy "Vasil Levski" for the long-term strategic partnership that combines academic expertise with organizational capacity – a foundation for the sustainable development of adapted sports in Bulgaria. The association reaffirmed its commitment to continue working towards the creation of inclusive sports opportunities and positive social change.
During the presentation of the organization’s activities, Ivaylo Zdravkov, Board member of BSDA, highlighted the 15-year contribution to developing inclusive sports practices in Bulgaria and Europe. The organization has been working systematically to create visibility, opportunities and international platforms for the participation of people with intellectual disabilities – an area in which access is still limited. BSDA showcased several key European initiatives that build upon efforts for social inclusion through sport:
SMILE: The project was recognized by SALTO for its contribution to "competence development" following the organization of an international camp that demonstrated the importance of sports mobility for personal growth, independence and European identity among participants.
#BeInclusiveWaterPolo: BSDA presented the results of the first international adapted water polo tournament for people with intellectual disabilities. The Bulgarian team, made up of participants from the BSDA-developed program, achieved an impressive 12:6 victory against Croatia – a strong example of how an adapted sport can build self-esteem, confidence and sense of belonging.
#BeActiveTogether: An initiative aimed at encouraging physical activity, social interaction and inclusion through sport, involving participation in international camps and training activities.
SPORT – Strengthening Potential Through Opportunities, Respect and Team Spirit: A project that expands the network of inclusive sports activities through international events, training sessions and support for young people with intellectual disabilities.
BSDA emphasized that sport is a powerful tool for developing independence, courage and social skills. International sports mobility programs enable participants to travel, communicate with peers from other countries and strengthen their identity as both Bulgarian and European citizens. The organization highlighted that inclusion through sport is essential for the physical and emotional well-being of people with intellectual disabilities, while also helping build more tolerant and supportive communities. BSDA expressed gratitude to the National Sports Academy "Vasil Levski" for the long-term strategic partnership that combines academic expertise with organizational capacity – a foundation for the sustainable development of adapted sports in Bulgaria. The association reaffirmed its commitment to continue working towards the creation of inclusive sports opportunities and positive social change.
