About

Ahead of their international tournament in Malaysia in January 2025, the England U19 squad received more than tactical preparation - they were given tools to navigate the digital arena with confidence and clarity. Freedom2hear delivered a bespoke social media workshop designed to help athletes protect their wellbeing, amplify their voice, and understand the risks and responsibilities of online engagement.

Challenge

Young athletes are increasingly visible online, often before they’re fully equipped to manage the scrutiny that comes with it. From viral moments to targeted abuse, the digital landscape can be both empowering and overwhelming.

The England U19 team needed practical, age-appropriate guidance - grounded in safeguarding, emotional intelligence, and operational clarity.

Solution

Bespoke workshop design
Tailored to the team’s age, tournament context, and digital footprint.

Interactive scenarios
Real-world examples of comment moderation, privacy risks, and platform dynamics.

Safeguarding first
Clear protocols for reporting abuse, managing visibility, and protecting mental wellbeing.

Empowerment through insight
Athletes learned how to use social media strategically - celebrating achievements, building community, and setting boundaries.

Results

Freedom2hear’s workshops don’t just teach athletes how to post - they equip them to protect their voice, defend their dignity, and engage with purpose. In sport, visibility is power - and with the right tools, it becomes legacy.

Key results
Increased awareness of digital risks and protective behaviours.
Confident, values-led engagement across personal and team accounts
Stronger alignment between athletes, coaches, and safe guarding staff.
A foundation for safe, inclusive representation on the global stage.