ABOUT US
Our vision is:
”A transformed sports world”
Since its inception in 1995, Sport for Life has been a transformed world of sport and sports culture. Our heart beats for the individual within the world of sport, believing that a transformed world of sport begins with transformed lives of individuals. We believe this is only possible when working on the health of the whole individual, where we are convinced that humans need nourishment for the mind, body and soul to feel good, grow and develop. This combination works best when the church and sports work together. Therefore, our goal is to promote collaborations between these parties. Together with dedicated individuals from the church and clubs, we want to be a positive force in the sports movement, contributing through sports, education and conversation to a healthy and good relationship with oneself, with those around you and with God. This concept creates achievements that reach beyond the sporting realm. Therefore, we can boldly say that together we are ”More than Sports”.
Everything we do is intended to breathe our values, which we believe create the conditions for a transformed sports culture. What would the world of sports look like if the majority of individuals were characterized by:
Happiness – We want the joy that exists in sports and that arises from meeting other people and God to be at the center. We speak well of one another, encourage one another, and help each other become better. Together we have fun both in the arena of life and in sports.
Generosity – We want to unselfishly and without ulterior motives look out for the best interests of others and help each other to develop. We share ideas and materials and generously give each other encouragement, time, money and knowledge. We respect each other’s differences and everyone is welcome as they are in their own life situation.
Teamwork – We believe in the individual without being individualistic; being alone is not strength. We believe life is meant to be shared with others and not lived as a ”one man show” or intended to be a platform for a few superstar athletes. Together we are strong and can lift each other to new heights. Therefore, we are constantly seeking collaborations with individuals and organizations that share the vision and heart of a transformed sports world.
Quality – We are wholeheartedly and passionately committed to everything we do. We are always grateful but never satisfied and constantly strive for perfection without believing that we are perfect. Our self-image and identity are not based on what we accomplish but on who we are. We do our best for each other and act in everything in a way that honors God.
BACKGROUND
Sport for Life was founded in 1995 by the initiator and front figure Paul Kobylarz together with some churches in Småland. Paul moved to Sweden in 1993 after having recently finished a professional career in the NHL. During a period of injury a few years earlier he had visited Sweden and discovered that sports and the church here did not cooperate with each other as they do in many places in the USA. He therefore felt after his career that he should move to Sweden and do his best to build bridges between the church and sports. Over 25 years later, the bridge building continues through Sport for Life and our relationships with local churches and clubs.
ACTIVITY
Although we have some staff members and collaborate with employees both in clubs and in churches, most of our activities, such as camps, events, sports teams, and networking, are still carried out thanks to all our fantastic volunteer leaders. There are hundreds of people and companies who, week after week, month after month, and year after year, are involved in investing in the vision. We would like to conclude this text by saying a big thank you to those who are involved, and at the same time welcome those who are not yet with us on the journey towards a transformed sports world!
If you have any further questions or concerns regarding Sport for Life, please do not hesitate to contact us.
News
Inheritance fund support gives more young people the chance of a safer future
Sport for Life Future in Eskilstuna receives support from the General Inheritance Fund to reduce the risk of young people being recruited into crime.
Sport for Life Future in Eskilstuna receives 3.9 million kronor from the General Inheritance Fund to develop its operations and thereby reduce the risk that young people at risk are recruited by gang criminals.
All Star Mission becomes Sport for Life Jönköping
The Pingst Jönköping sports ministry All Star Mission has chosen to change its name. But the heart and vision remain the same.
We believe in a sports world where community, joy and development go hand in hand. Therefore, we stand even more clearly together now. For a transformed sports world – in Jönköping and in Sweden.