For many, sports represent far more than just physical activity. They are a source of strength, resilience, and hope, especially in difficult times. This is certainly the case for Jeroen van Beekveld, a former professional basketball player who found solace on the court during life’s most challenging moments. Today, Jeroen channels that same belief into his work as a project manager at COA.
That’s why he was excited to embark on a new project with Stichting Life Goals, an organization that uses sports to foster confidence, community, and well-being among vulnerable groups—including asylum seekers.
The program developed by Stichting Life Goals in cooperation with COA focuses on a particularly overlooked group—young adult asylum seekers aged 18-28. These young men and women often face deep emotional struggles, from depression and loneliness to anxiety about the future. Although they no longer qualify for programs aimed at minors, they still bear the emotional weight of traumatic past experiences, along with the daunting task of starting anew in a foreign land.
Van Beekveld believes that sports offer a powerful avenue for reaching them. As he explains, “You don’t normally see them, they’re always behind doors. They’re a special group that we’d like to give more attention to, and help build their self-esteem.”
So far, 20 asylum shelter locations across the Netherlands have introduced the program. Stichting Life Goals reached out to us to see how we could help support the growth and evolution of this great initiative. Thanks to Basic Fit, we were able to provide missing equipment that offers a stepping stone into the program and a way to facilitate key one-to-one conversations.
Building strength—mentally and physically
Sports have a unique way of breaking barriers, and the Stichting Life Goals program is designed with this in mind. Each session is an opportunity for participants to build their confidence, strengthen their mental resilience, and begin to reconnect with others. “At first, many are shy, but as the program progresses, you see a noticeable change. They become stronger mentally, smile more, and begin to communicate with ease,” Van Beekveld adds.
The universal language of sports plays a crucial role. “Internationally, sports have their own language. Even if you don’t speak the same words, a gesture made during a game is understood. It transcends language barriers.”
Sports as a metaphor for life
The impact of this sports program goes beyond physical fitness. Martijn Eppink, who works at an asylum shelter that provides specialized support for residents facing mental health challenges, has seen firsthand how the program serves as a vital tool for emotional recovery. Many asylum seekers struggle to open up about their experiences, often retreating into isolation—a pattern that can lead to depression. But through sports, Eppink’s team is finding a way to bridge the gap.
“Sports become a metaphor for life,” Eppink explains. “It’s not just about staying physically healthy, but also about learning to cope with stress, resolve conflicts, and understand how behavior in a game mirrors behavior in other areas of life.”
Whether it’s a moment of stress on the field or a disagreement between teammates, the skills learned in these sessions can translate into real-life situations. Participants are encouraged to reflect on their actions and use what they’ve learned to navigate their broader struggles as asylum seekers.
A gentle step towards healing
One of the most exciting additions to the program has been the introduction of stationary bikes, generously provided by Basic Fit, one of People for People’s partners. For those who may feel too intimidated to join group sports like football or volleyball, the bikes offer a way to ease into the program. As Eppink notes, “It’s a first step. People can participate without interacting directly with the group. Sometimes, after just a few weeks of using the bikes, they feel ready to join in the larger activities.”
The stationary bikes also offer a valuable space for quiet connection. Residents can pair up with a coach or counselor and talk while in motion, creating a more relaxed environment where difficult conversations can flow naturally.
“We are proud to participate in the programme and support the growth and evolution of this fantastic initiative. At Basic-Fit, we are dedicated to providing everyone, especially young people, with the opportunity to be physically fit and mentally strong. Sport is a powerful tool for improving mood, reducing stress, and boosting self-confidence. By making fitness accessible to these youngsters, we aim to inspire them to care for both their bodies and minds, fostering fitter communities and enhancing the well-being of our planet and society.”
After one year, the results speak for themselves. “In general, the evening after a sports session, people are more relaxed,” Eppink shares. “Almost every time, at least one or two people open up about what’s on their mind,” says Erica van Vonderen-Hahn, CCO of Basic-Fit.
It acts as a starting point for moving towards deeper conversations. And as Eppink shared, many residents tell him it’s the highlight of their week.
“It seems like a small thing but to some people, at this moment, or in this stage in their life, it makes a big difference,” he says.
The program isn’t without its challenges—Eppink acknowledges that it’s still evolving, with room for experimentation and growth. But its positive impact on participants is undeniable.
Opening up local teams to new players
Beyond the immediate benefits for asylum seekers, Van Beekveld sees this program as a way to bridge gaps between local communities and asylum centers. Coaches involved in the program have connections with local sports clubs, and they encourage asylum seekers to join these clubs, helping them feel more integrated into their new surroundings.
“I believe we can overcome politics with sports,” Van Beekveld says. “It’s a universal language that helps break down barriers and foster real human connection.”
Cycling is not only an important part of the program, but also an integral and fun part of Dutch culture.
Nadir Abdelmoumen, a team lead at a COA location in the Hague for unaccompanied minors who are also participating in the program, said it’s really been a hit with the boys at his shelter.
“The boys are on the bikes every day!”
A brighter future
Through initiatives like this, this special group is finding a renewed sense of purpose and belonging. They are learning to confront their past traumas, build confidence, and connect with others—all through the simple, yet powerful act of playing sports. As Van Beekveld and Eppink continue their work, they offer a beacon of hope, showing that, with the right support, healing and transformation are possible.
At its core, this program is about more than just sports. It’s about giving young people the tools they need to rise above their circumstances, rebuild their self-esteem, and step confidently into a brighter future.
