National tournaments

PINBALL in action

– Bringing the message to the pitch

As part of the PINBALL project, each participating Football Association (FAF, HFF, FPF, HNS, and SFV) implemented the PINBALL Methodology across approximately ten youth teams.
The project culminated in a series of final tournaments—an opportunity to celebrate the work done, share the project’s message, and involve even more players, coaches, and communities.

The format varied across countries:

Some FAs hosted one or two large, centralized tournaments that brought together all participating teams along with others from across the country.

Others, like the Swiss Football Association (SFV), took a decentralized approach—allowing each team to organize its own local tournament. This grassroots model fostered strong local engagement and visibility.

Thanks to this flexible setup, the project reached a wide and diverse audience, strengthening its mission to raise awareness and inspire action against bullying in youth football—and beyond.

In total, 68 teams and over 1,000 young players—both boys and girls—took part in the tournaments.

PINBALL proves that the fight against bullying can start with a single training session, a match, and the will to make a difference.

Finland – two final tournaments, two cities

(March 23 & April 17, 2024)

Finland’s Football Association hosted two vibrant PINBALL tournaments—first in Jakobstad (Pietarsaari) with 16 teams and 240 players, then in Espoo (Kauklahti), where 200 schoolchildren joined forces with local clubs. Both events focused on positive behavior, inclusion, and respect—core values of the PINBALL project. Local media coverage helped spread the message even further.

Portugal – National Tournament at Football City

(April 8, 2024)

The Portuguese Football Federation welcomed 10 teams and around 200 young players to its headquarters in Oeiras for a PINBALL tournament focused on fun, fairness, and respect. Players from three partner clubs competed in 7v7 and 9v9 games, with no final scores—emphasizing sportsmanship over competition. Participants also toured the national training center and learned about the core values behind Portuguese football.

Switzerland – local tournaments across the country

(Jan–Apr 2025)

The Swiss Football Association supported eight local PINBALL tournaments in clubs across the country, each shaped by the hosting teams. Some clubs held internal events, while others invited teams from nearby schools. A highlight was the involvement of young players in planning and leading the tournaments, boosting their leadership and teamwork skills. The message was clear: football is a place for respect, inclusion, and standing up to bullying—together.

Croatia – national tournament in Zagreb

(December 1, 2024)

Held at NK Lokomotiva in Zagreb, the Croatian national PINBALL tournament brought together 100 children—including 41 girls—from six local clubs. The event kicked off with warm-ups and an interactive anti-bullying activity before players took to the field. Led by HNS grassroots and women’s football experts, the tournament wrapped up with a celebratory closing ceremony and gifts for every participant.

Greece – national tournament in Athens

(April 22, 2024)

The Hellenic Football Federation hosted its national PINBALL tournament at Ermis Football Club in Athens, bringing together eight youth teams (boys and girls, aged 15–17) from three grassroots clubs. The event focused on creating a safe, inclusive playing environment with clear rules and behavior guidelines. After the games, players joined a session on respect, fair play, and anti-bullying—reinforcing that these values matter on and off the pitch.