Young people in Budapest are gaining confidence, new opportunities and unforgettable experiences through the power of football, thanks to a collaboration between FedEx, the UEFA Foundation for Children and local NGO Second Chance Sports Association (SCSA).
With the support of a $100,000 USD grant from FedEx, SCSA is expanding its work with vulnerable young people - particularly girls who have faced challenging life circumstances, including those in care or correctional settings. The programme uses football to rebuild confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging.
Each week, trained SCSA social coaches deliver football sessions alongside workshops focused on emotional wellbeing, healthy relationships and trauma support, helping participants grow both on and off the pitch.
The initiative came to life during the UEFA Champions League Final celebrations in Budapest, where SCSA beneficiaries also got to experience the excitement of one of the world’s biggest sporting events. Activities included joining the Champions Festival and the UEFA Champions League Trophy ceremony in Heroes’ Square.
Participants also took part in the FedEx Move Like a Pro experience, including a special meet-and-greet with Brazilian legend and UEFA Champions League winner Cafu.
In a standout moment, three selected girls from SCSA walked onto the pitch as official Referee Mascots at the UEFA Champions League Final at the Puskás Arena – a once-in-a-lifetime experience on one of football’s biggest stages.
Frigyes Hegyi, SCSA spokesperson and coach, said: “It has been a dream come true for our community. For 20 years, we’ve supported disadvantaged young people across Budapest through football. To see them experience an event like this - here in their own city - is incredibly special. The smiles on their faces say it all.”
Carine Nkoue, General Secretary of the UEFA Foundation for Children, said: “This collaboration provides both vital funding and a powerful global platform for Second Chance Sports Association to continue its impactful work and create new opportunities for young people who may not otherwise have access to them.”
Kaat Vanderheyde, Managing Director, Brand & Communications at FedEx, said: “At FedEx, we connect people and possibilities every day - and this collaboration brings that purpose to life. Working with the UEFA Foundation for Children shows how football can drive real social inclusion when combined with long-term commitment and strong local partnerships. Moments like the UEFA Champions League Final are about more than football- they’re about inclusion, confidence and feeling part of something bigger. We’re proud to support organisations like SCSA and help amplify the important work they do.”
FedEx has worked closely with the UEFA Foundation for Children for over a decade, supporting grassroots organizations across Europe and helping thousands of young people access sport, new opportunities and a stronger sense of community, delivering meaningful change locally.
Since the launch in 2022, of the “Championing an Inclusive Future Through Football” grant-giving programme, FedEx has supported organisations in UEFA Champions League host cities including Paris, Istanbul, London and Munich. Following Budapest, the initiative will continue in Madrid for the 2027 final.
To find out more about Second Chance Sports Association, click here
To find out more about FedEx collaboration with the UEFA Foundation for Children, click here