In this edition of the STAY! Interview series, we speak with Zoja, a young coach actively involved in her basketball club and the STAY project through the Sports Union of Slovenia (SUS). Her story reflects how sport, when combined with trust, support, and responsibility, can become a powerful space for growth, mentorship, and community-building.
Through coaching beginner players, participating in professional workshops, and building strong relationships in her club, Zoja shows how young people can not only stay in sport but take on meaningful roles that shape their future. Her insights echo the core mission of STAY: to support youth development, prevent dropout, and create lasting impact.
What role did you take on within the STAY project?
I’m currently active as a coach for younger age categories, and I also continue to participate in various club activities.
Working directly with beginner players has allowed me to grow into a leadership role — it’s where I first started to see how important encouragement, patience, and support are for young athletes.
How do you experience basketball today after participating in the STAY project?
Basketball means a lot to me, not just as a sport, but as a space where I grow both as a person and as a coach. I enjoy passing on my knowledge to young beginner players, encouraging them, and supporting their development. When I see how they improve, become more confident and persistent, I feel that my work truly makes a difference.
What do you think about the STAY activities?
STAY helped me see the bigger picture, that sport is not only about results, but about relationships, values, and personal growth. I think the workshops with different professionals — psychologists, coaches, nutritionists — were very important. Each one brought new knowledge that complemented our basketball training and expanded our understanding of what it means to support young athletes.
How did you experience the atmosphere within the project?
The atmosphere was truly warm and inclusive. There was never a sense of competition between us — we supported each other and learned from one another. I was proud to be part of a team where honesty, effort, and collaboration were genuinely valued.
What does being part of a basketball club mean to you?
Being part of a basketball club means so much to me. It’s not just a place for training, it’s like a second family. I grew up in the club, learned how to work in a team, overcome challenges, and build meaningful relationships. It’s a great feeling to know you’re part of a community that supports you and where you can support others too. The club gives you a sense of belonging and responsibility, you know your work matters, and that you’re contributing to something bigger.
Why Zoja’s story matters
From coaching young athletes to participating in expert-led workshops, Zoja’s journey highlights the transformative power of trust and responsibility in sport. Her experience shows that retention isn’t just about keeping young people active, it’s about giving them space to lead, grow, and contribute in ways that shape both their future and the club’s.
