World Diabetes Day: Empowering Young Athletes to Move with Confidence
Every year on 14 November, the world marks World Diabetes Day a moment to raise awareness, promote education, and challenge the stigma around diabetes.
For young people living with Type 1 diabetes, sport can be a source of joy, motivation and identity but also uncertainty. Balancing glucose levels with training demands isn’t always simple, and no young athlete should navigate it alone.
At DiaPS, our mission is clear:
to help every young athlete train confidently, stay safe, and feel supported — on and off the field.
Why Sport Matters
Physical activity plays a vital role in diabetes management. It stabilizes glucose levels, supports mental wellbeing, and builds resilience.
Yet too many young people still hear: “Maybe you should slow down,” or “Sport might be too risky for you.”
This is exactly why the DiaPS project began — to ensure that no child feels limited, no parent feels lost, and no coach feels unprepared.
Supporting Young Athletes: Our Approach
Through the DiaPS project, we are developing practical, accessible educational tools for athletes, coaches, teachers and parents. Our resources focus on:
- Clear guidance for managing diabetes before, during and after sport
- Support for coaches & PE teachers to feel confident and informed
- Peer stories & real-life advice from young people with Type 1 diabetes
- Educational materials for families, schools and sport organizations
Because with the right understanding and support, every young athlete can thrive.
The Sports & Diabetes Guidebook
Our free publication, the Sports & Diabetes Guidebook, already helps hundreds of athletes, families and coaches across Europe.
It offers practical advice, step-by-step strategies, and inspiring stories to support safe and enjoyable participation in sport.
And while the Guidebook remains your go-to resource, we’re quietly preparing something new that will make learning and support even more accessible — coming soon.
📘 Download the Guidebook here:
https://sportsanddiabetes.eu/outputs/the-publication
A Future with Fewer Barriers
This World Diabetes Day, we celebrate the strength and resilience of young athletes living with diabetes. Their stories inspire us to continue building tools that make sport safer, more inclusive, and easier to navigate.
Because diabetes should never mean stepping off the field and with what’s coming next, that future is closer than ever.
