UEFA's Football in Schools programme and Lidl inspiring Latvia's next generation

Children across Latvia are enjoying improved access to football and are developing healthier, more active lifestyles, thanks to the UEFA Football in Schools programme and its partnership with Lidl.

By bringing football directly into school environments and linking physical activity with positive lifestyle messages, the initiative is helping children discover the game in a fun, safe and inclusive way – all while encouraging habits that extend beyond the pitch.

These benefits were on display at this month's 3v3 football festival in Riga, where around 100 children took part in a fun day designed to provide maximum involvement and enjoyment for everybody.

Delivered as part of the Football in Schools initiative, the event provided every participant with the opportunity to play and learn, reinforcing how the game can build confidence, skills, inclusion and a lasting love of sport.

Small sided football, big benefits

There are many advantages to the 3v3 format, which ensures every participant is constantly involved. With smaller teams and pitches, players can enjoy more touches on the ball, frequent decision making moments and greater freedom to express themselves.

This approach supports technical development while also boosting confidence and enjoyment – particularly important for children taking their first steps in football.

Rotating teams and a festival atmosphere encourages teamwork, creativity and social interaction, reinforcing football’s role as a positive shared experience.

UEFA

"Through Football in Schools, we are creating more opportunities for children across Latvia to discover the game in a fun and inclusive way,” said Nina Travkina, Head of Football and Women’s Football Development at the Latvian Football Federation (LFF).

"Events like this festival show how powerful simple formats like 3v3 can be in building confidence, enjoyment and a lifelong connection to football."

Football reaching children where they are

The Riga festival also showcased the LFF's wider work in bringing football into schools across the country. By delivering activities directly within the school environment, the programme removes barriers to participation and reaches children who may not otherwise engage with organised sport.

UEFA

In Latvia, Football in Schools offers a progressive pathway, from 3v3 activities for younger age groups, to 7v7 school championships and high school futsal competitions.

"Football in Schools is about giving every child the opportunity to play and enjoy the game in a positive environment," explained Stuart Grieve, UEFA's Player Development Specialist.

"What we see here in Latvia is a strong example of how schools can create meaningful, engaging football experiences for young players."

Supporting healthy habits beyond the pitch

The festival also underlined how football can promote wider wellbeing.

Thanks to UEFA’s partnership with Lidl, children were encouraged to adopt healthy habits alongside physical activity, with access to fresh fruit, snacks and water throughout the day.

UEFA

By linking football with messages around conscious nutrition and active lifestyles, the campaign looks to reinforce positive behaviours that extend beyond the pitch and into everyday life.

"Through our partnership with UEFA, we want to support initiatives that not only get children active but also help them develop healthy habits from an early age," said Zane Nelke, Head of Corporate Communications at Lidl Latvia.

"Events like this show how football can have a positive impact beyond the game itself."

UEFA