Education and Training for Inclusion in Team Sports Using Football as an Example in Liechtenstein

Football connects – and this is exactly where the new coach training programme by FOOTBALL IS MORE in Liechtenstein begins.

With the “Education and Training for Inclusion in Team Sports Using Football as an Example”, we created a practical and comprehensive learning opportunity that empowers coaches to guide and support people with and without impairments together on the pitch – and to embed inclusion sustainably within their clubs.

The programme was conducted in close cooperation with the Liechtenstein Office for Sports and the Liechtensteiner Fussballverband (LFV) and was co-funded by the Guido Feger Stiftung.

This training aimed to equip local and regional coaches with the knowledge and tools needed to make club structures more inclusive and to actively integrate people with impairments into club life.

Through this initiative, FOOTBALL IS MORE has taken an important step towards promoting inclusion in and through football in Liechtenstein and the surrounding region.

Theory and practice – learning with head, heart, and hands

The programme combined theoretical knowledge, reflection, and practical sessions on the pitch.

Theoretical component

Under the guidance of Fritz Quien (VfB Stuttgart – Brustring der Herzen) and Cengiz Bicer, participants explored how to understand inclusion as both an attitude and an educational approach within team sports.

They addressed questions such as:

• How can football serve as a tool for social participation?
• How can training sessions be prepared and adapted so that every player – regardless of ability – can actively participate?
• What defines a strong and inclusive team culture, and how can it be developed?

The theoretical inputs also covered communication with parents and families, building supportive club structures, and organising inclusive match days. Particular emphasis was placed on planning and reviewing training sessions so that coaches can respond to individual needs and enable progress for everyone.

Practical component

The practical part brought the theory to life on the pitch. Coaches learned how to design engaging and adaptable exercises that promote movement, joy, and team spirit for everyone.

On the first day, participants trained together with the team for people with impairments from FC St. Gallen – an inspiring exchange that linked theory with direct experience.

On the second day, practical sessions followed with Brunau Stiftung, Special Olympics Liechtenstein, and “Wir am Kumma” from Vorarlberg.

These encounters made it tangible how inclusion works on the pitch – through flexibility, mutual support, and genuine interactions.

In addition, Markus Kummer introduced the Jugend+Sport component, meaning the course is officially recognised as a licence renewal.

Diverse participants – inclusion in practice

Among the participants were coaches from:

• Special Olympics Liechtenstein,
• regional football clubs such as USV Eschen-Mauren, FC Triesenberg, FC Ruggell, SC Brühl St. Gallen, the Liechtensteiner Fussballverband (LFV), and FC Schaan,
• as well as other sports including hockey, tennis, and athletics.

This diversity sparked valuable discussions and perspectives across sports. Together, the group explored how inclusion can be lived not only on the pitch but throughout club life – through collaboration, openness, and shared learning.

A milestone for Liechtenstein and the region

With the “Education and Training for Inclusion in Team Sports Using Football as an Example”, an important milestone has been set for establishing inclusion as a permanent part of sport in Liechtenstein. Participants left the training with new competences, practical tools, and a strengthened mindset – ready to make sport for all a reality in their clubs.

Our heartfelt thanks go to all partners, instructors, organisations, and participants who made this important step possible.