Hi °C | Lo °C A pilot project aimed at kicking sectarianism in sport into touch is being rolled out across North West.
The European Union-backed Respect project will initially involve 40 chosen sports clubs from Londonderry, Strabane and Donegal.
Leading sporting bodies including the Ulster branch of the Irish Rugby Football Union, the GAA Ulster Council, the IFA and the FAI have all backed the good relations initiative.
Londonderry YMCA general secretary William Lamrock came up with the idea for the project, and it has been developed by Gary McClean after being allocated funding from PEACE III.
It will focus on adult and youth football, gaelic, rugby, cricket and hockey clubs across the region.
Respect community and sports officer Mr McClean said the project aimed to build good relations into the make-up of grass roots sports clubs.
There will initially be 10 "hubs" made up of four clubs from different areas.
It will focus on club managers, coaches and others involved in the running of each organisation in the hope that the learning will filter down to all and becomes embedded.
Mr McClean said: "It is hoped Respect will increase the confidence and capacity for changing attitudes towards sectarianism as well as racism.
"It will look at developing relationships, getting to know each other and breaking down the barriers that exist."
Club officials taking part will undergo 11-12 weekly sessions looking at racism, sectarianism, how clubs are defined, and the conflict in Northern Ireland.
