Introduction

The Bounce of Joy initiative, a collaboration between STAIRS Foundation and ITC Limited, successfully introduced structured football training and nutrition awareness to over 3 lakh students in 300 public schools across Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. The program aimed to enhance sports education, physical fitness, and overall well-being through structured training, capacity building, and infrastructure support.

Objective of the Initiative

• Introduce Football Education: Provide structured football training to schoolchildren.
• Capacity Building for Educators: Train PE teachers in coaching and sports nutrition.
• Encourage Sports Participation: Promote teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness.
• Enhance Nutrition Awareness: Educate students on hydration and diet for athletic performance.
• Talent Identification & Development: Discover and nurture young footballers for future opportunities.

Implementation Strategy

1. Target Beneficiaries: Over 3 lakh students from 300 public schools
2. Training Modules: Covered football skills, fitness conditioning, strategy, and nutrition awareness.
3. Infrastructure & Equipment: Distributed goalposts, footballs, agility ladders, and nutrition guidebooks.
4. Expert-Led Training: Conducted by certified coaches, fitness experts, and sports nutritionists.

Impact and Outcomes

• Increased sports engagement among schoolchildren.
• Improved fitness, endurance, and discipline through structured training.
• Enhanced nutritional awareness, ensuring students understand hydration and diet essentials.
• 300 PE teachers trained, creating long-term sustainability in school sports education.
• Formation of school football teams and identification of potential young athletes.

Monitoring & Evaluation

• Baseline & Endline Surveys assessed fitness, skills, and nutrition awareness.
• Teacher & Coach Evaluations ensured effective training and mentoring.
• Nutrition Awareness Assessments measured improvements in hydration and diet knowledge.

Sustainability & Future Roadmap

• Integration into school curriculums to ensure continuity.
• Expansion to more schools and states based on the success of the pilot.
• Digital engagement through training videos and expert mentorship for continuous learning.

Conclusion

The Bounce of Joy initiative demonstrates the power of CSR in transforming grassroots sports development. By combining sports education, physical training, and nutrition awareness, this initiative has empowered thousands of children, ensuring a healthier, more active generation.