From August 2 to 9, 2026, DJK Sportjugend hosted the international FICEP Camp in Bischofsgrün, Germany. Under the theme “Values in Sports,” 67 young people from Germany, Austria, France, Romania, and the Czech Republic spent a week enjoying sports, intercultural exchange, and new friendships.
A warm welcome
On Sunday, the delegations were warmly welcomed before the official opening ceremony. Following the parade of nations, participants were introduced to the program and camp rules. Each evening concluded with a meditation led by a different national delegation, offering time for reflection.
Sports, games, community
Monday focused on team building and getting to know one another. Participants worked in international groups, took part in cooperative activities, and designed camp T-shirts. The first rehearsals for the camp flash mob also began.
During the week, participants selected from a wide range of workshops, including rock climbing, disc golf, archery, laser biathlon, yoga, beach volleyball, language activities, and nutrition. Working in mixed international groups encouraged friendships, cultural exchange, and teamwork.
The week’s highlights
Among the week’s highlights was the charity bazaar on Tuesday evening. Wednesday featured an international beach volleyball tournament, with teams deliberately composed of participants from different countries. The emphasis was on fair play, team spirit, and mutual support. Refreshments were provided through the Federal Institute for Public Health’s “Enjoy Sports Alcohol-Free” initiative.
One of the most memorable events was the “Evening of Nations,” where each delegation presented cultural performances, including dances, acrobatics, and creative skits, highlighting the diversity of the FICEP community.
On Thursday, the group traveled to Nuremberg, where participants explored the city through a photo challenge. Their rehearsed flash mob attracted special attention in the city center.
Values in Sports
Friday focused on the camp theme of values in sports. Together with Special Olympics Bavaria, the participants explored topics such as respect, fairness, inclusion, and solidarity through interactive workshops and group activities.
Saturday combined sports activities with creative workshops, such as bracelet making and stone painting. In the traditional Nations Games, each delegation introduced a typical game from its home country. Later, the “Values Walk” through the forest encouraged participants to reflect on the role of values in sports and everyday life.
Outlook to 2027
The Closing Ceremony provided an emotional conclusion to the week. During the ceremony, the FICEP flag was officially handed over to Romania, host of the next FICEP Camp, before participants celebrated together at a farewell party.
As the delegations departed on Sunday, they took home new friendships, international experiences, and lasting memories. Through sports, workshops, and shared activities, they experienced the importance of fairness, respect, solidarity, and community firsthand.
