In the midst of this week’s International Youth Day (12), European Athletics shone a spotlight on the power, passion, and creativity of its youth community - and nowhere was this more visible than in the Athletes’ Zone at the European Athletics U20 Championships in Tampere on 7-10 August.
The Athletes’ Zone was more than just a place to relax — it was one of the projects that brings to life European Athletics’ commitment to empowering young leaders and strengthening connections within the athletics community, especially young people.
Four volunteers, all active members of the European Athletics Youth Community and deeply involved in youth-led projects, were the perfect match to run this space.
Their backgrounds as athletes, federation staff, and safeguarding advocates meant they could relate directly to participants, creating an environment that was authentic, peer-driven, and fully aligned with European Athletics’ long-term strategy to support young people both on and off the track.
"Mental health deserves just as much attention as physical performance"
The Athletes’ Zone offered an interactive, friendly, and relaxing atmosphere where athletes could take a break from competition while engaging in meaningful activities.
From the Escape Game exploring safeguarding scenarios to light-hearted attractions like the Photo Booth and temporary tattoo station, every element was designed to spark curiosity, encourage learning, and start conversations that matter.
“As a former athlete, I find it important to contribute to the Athletes’ Zone by sharing my experiences and helping young athletes learn from and with each other,” said Athletes’ Zone volunteer and Olympic pole vaulter Femke Pluim.
“I truly believe we can achieve so much more by opening up, sharing not only our highs, but also our doubts, struggles, and tips fuelled by our shared love for the sport.
“Mental health deserves just as much attention as physical performance, and by having honest conversations, we can start breaking the stigma together.
“This way, we show the next generation that enjoying the sport and performing at your best can - and should - go hand in hand.”
"Important conversations"
Tina Bischoff Gellin, volunteer from the Denmark Athletics Federation, added: “The Athlete Zone was a really valuable space for the athletes, not only for their physical health, but also to connect socially and mentally.
“The athletes sometimes stood outside wondering, ‘Oh wow, is this for me?’ — you could really see they appreciated we did this for them. They also really loved the temporary tattoos!”
The Youth for Youth concept proved central to the Zone’s success, enabling authentic peer-to-peer exchanges on safeguarding, human rights, mental health and well-being.
“Being part of the Athlete Zone was an incredible opportunity to connect with so many athletes, not only through fun activities, but also by having important conversations about safeguarding, healthy eating, recovery, or mental health.
“It was inspiring to see how athletics is a safe space for learning and supporting others beyond competition.” reflected Carina Post from German Athletics Federation.
"Safer sport for all"
Whilst Philip Hurst of Great Britain and our volunteer with background in Anti-doping and Safeguarding added: “It was a great to meet athletes from every country competing at the championships and help raise awareness of safeguarding and promoting mental health.
“The activities and games that European Athletics created were ideal in helping athletes better understand how to report experiences of abuse and harassment to create safer sport for all.”
The space quickly became a favourite at the championships, with athletes interacting with every element and leaving not only with new skills and insights, but also with friendships and a stronger sense of belonging in the athletics family.
"You inspire us everyday"
European Athletics CEO Christian Milz summed it up: “We celebrate the energy, passion, and potential of young people everywhere — and we’ve just seen it in action at the European Athletics U23 and U20 Championships, our very own Youngsters’ Festival of Athletics.
“From record-breaking performances to the Athletes’ Zone managed by members of our youth community, this was a space where athletes from all over Europe connected, learned from each other’s diverse backgrounds, and created friendships that will last far beyond the track. Here’s to the next generation — you inspire us every day!”