Within the framework of the international HEPA Olympics (HEPA-O) project, Serbia has become the epicenter of a series of innovative sports events that brought together dozens of teachers from Belgrade, Niš and Požarevac. These inter-school gatherings were not merely competitions; they served as platforms for burnout prevention, the exchange of experiences, and the promotion of physical activity as a core life value.

The pilot cycle in Serbia included three key events, each with a specific focus on different forms of movement and infrastructure:

1. A winter start in Niš (January 2026): The first meeting took place at the Čair Ice Rink in Niš, where teachers from Niš and Požarevac tested their coordination and balance on the ice. The focus was on “pedagogy by example”—by supporting one another, educators demonstrated how to step out of their comfort zones.

2. Team synergy in Belgrade (February 2026): The sports hall of the “Milan Đ. Milićević” Elementary School hosted a volleyball tournament. Here, the final score was not the priority; the emphasis was placed on tactical communication and rule modifications to ensure everyone, regardless of skill level, could contribute equally to the team.

3. Back to the roots at Košutnjak (March 2026): The largest event brought together teachers from five schools at outdoor training grounds. Through the revival of traditional games such as tire pulling, walking on planks, and sack races, the public park infrastructure was activated, achieving a powerful “psychological relief” effect in nature.

One of the most important goals of these events was the inclusion of not only Physical Education professors but also teachers of other academic disciplines. In doing so, the HEPA-O project successfully transformed educators into HEPA Ambassadors capable of bringing leadership and enthusiasm back into their classrooms and schoolyards.

The main challenge—balancing the varying physical fitness levels of participants—was resolved through a “peer-support” model, where more experienced colleagues assisted beginners.

What remains after the completion of the pilot cycle is a strong peer-support network. Utilizing local infrastructure (school halls, public parks, and ice rinks) proved that high-quality HEPA programs do not require expensive resources, but rather goodwill, team spirit, and an awareness of the importance of movement.

Your every step is an example for the generations to come. This motto of the Batut Institute and the HEPA-O team came to life through every volleyball serve, every glide on the ice, and every shared obstacle overcome at Košutnjak.

The events were organized by the Association Sport for All Serbia (ASFAS) in cooperation with partner schools from Belgrade, Niš, and Požarevac.