Laureus at the Fundación Real Madrid’s adapted school in Valdebernardo
Jessica Ennis-Hill, Boris Becker and Óscar de Marcos participated in the activities with people with disabilities.
Representatives from Laureus Sport for Good visited the adapted football school run by Fundación Real Madrid at the Centro Deportivo Municipal Faustina Valladolid, in the Madrid neighborhood of Valdebernardo, to gain first-hand insight into the work carried out with children and young people with disabilities. The visit became an inspiring experience for the delegation, who were able to observe the real impact of the project up close.
Silvia Montes‑Jovellar, Director of Projects at Fundación Real Madrid, welcomed the delegation led by Laureus Academy members Jessica Ennis‑Hill and Boris Becker, accompanied by former professional player Óscar de Marcos. The visitors did more than simply observe the session; they actively took part, sharing exercises, smiles and moments of connection with the participants. The enthusiasm and effort shown by the students left a lasting impression on the Laureus representatives, who were able to see how the Fundación’s educational methodology—based on inclusion and the holistic development of each person through sport—is applied in practice. The visit is part of Laureus Sport for Good’ commitment to learning first-hand about the programs it supports and strengthening its involvement in initiatives that promote social inclusion.
During the session, Boris Becker highlighted the unifying power of sport, noting that “sport is a universal language that brings people together beyond any differences.” Jessica Ennis‑Hill praised the impact of the project, saying that “seeing these young people enjoy themselves and gain confidence shows just how much sport can change lives.” Óscar de Marcos, who showed great closeness with the students, emphasized the positive energy of the day: “The happiness these kids transmit reminds you why initiatives like this are so necessary.” Eduardo Agulla, Head of Football at Fundación Real Madrid, underlined the importance of the visit for the participants, stating: “It has been an unforgettable experience for our students, one they will remember for weeks.”
Address the lack of equitable access to sport for children with disabilities
The collaboration between Fundación Real Madrid and Laureus Sport for Good, formalized this week, aims to address the lack of equitable access to sport for children with disabilities. The Fundación’s adapted schools promote group activities that foster inclusion, improve health and develop social, emotional, and motor skills, strengthening self‑esteem and creating safe and respectful spaces where participants feel they belong. To this end, Fundación applies its own methodology, “For a REAL Education: Values and Sport”, which combines sports training with education in values such as respect, equality, and teamwork. The sessions are designed and conducted by professionals specifically trained to meet the needs of each group.
During the last season, nearly one hundred participants benefited from the schools funded by the Laureus Sport for Good, including the Inclusive Orcasur school, Adapted Adults Orcasur, ASD (autism spectrum disorder) Móstoles, ASD Plata y Castañar, Adapted Adults Alcobendas, and Adapted Valdebernardo, consolidating a significant impact across various districts and municipalities.
A partnership that transforms lives
The visit strengthens the relationship between Fundación Real Madrid and Laureus Sport for Good, a partnership that demonstrates how sport, when managed with an educational and inclusive approach, can become a powerful tool for improving lives and building a fairer and more equitable society.