Support That Educates: The Respect&Play Project Brings Sporting Values to Young People

In Como, sports education is not limited to the stadium: it reaches schools, neighborhoods and the daily lives of young people. This is the spirit of Respect&Play, the project that, also this season, brings the values of sport into classrooms across the territory, transforming fandom into a journey of growth.

“Through sport, we can teach young people the values of respect, inclusion and positive support, while conveying the principles of teamwork and fair play” says Paolo Novati, co-founder of Respect&Play. The initiative, promoted by Como 1907 together with Teste di Serie and Polisport SSD, aims to train a new generation of conscious and responsible fans.

After the pilot project launched in 2024, the new edition has reached even more schools and students. The program targets children and teenagers from elementary to high school, adapting content and methods to each age group.

The first part of the program takes place in the classroom, where students explore topics such as respect, positive fandom, and fair play. Here, supporting a team is understood as a conscious act, capable of uniting rather than dividing. “We want children to see sport as a moment of joy, emotion and growth, not a battlefield, but a space for respect and collaboration” continues Paolo, explaining how, through stories of exemplary athletes and historical figures, students are encouraged to reflect, discuss and share personal experiences.

“When we talk about values, we encourage students to share what they experience every day, both positive and negative momentS, so they can learn to recognize and manage their emotions” adds Paolo, emphasizing how this process transforms sport into a daily practice of respect for oneself, others and the wider community.

The most impactful part of the project comes through practical activities: through sports and games, students put what they have learned into action, turning principles into habits.

To fully experience these lessons, students are then invited to Stadio Sinigaglia, where they watch a Como 1907 Serie A match, observing the field and the stands with fresh eyes and applying the lessons learned in class.  The stadium thus becomes an open-air classroom, where children discover the importance of rules, supporting their team, and respecting opponents. The phrase “Disrespect out, fair play in” displayed on a banner the students proudly wave, symbolizes their commitment as Respect&Play kids.

The project also offers opportunities to meet athletes who experience competition firsthand. At the conclusion of last season, Alessio Iovine, former captain of Como 1907, shared his experience with the students: “Education is fundamental. The context you come from, your parents, and the people around you are key elements in your path. Respect for others is essential in every aspect of life, both on and off the field.”

Teachers have already noticed tangible changes in students’ behavior: better emotional management, increased respect among peers, and more harmonious relationships. The impact is further confirmed by the involvement of families and the support of Fondazione Como ETS, which considers schools a cornerstone of its social mission. Today’s children will be tomorrow’s fans, players, and citizens. Investing in their education means shaping conscious, respectful individuals while promoting their mental and physical well-being.