The Step-by-Step Process
How to move from an idea to a structured, inclusive mentoring journey with sport as a bridge.
▾Mentoring programme roadmap – overview
From idea to mentoring journey
A successful mentoring programme doesn’t begin with recruitment — it starts earlier, with a conscious decision to create and implement a structured and inclusive mentoring journey. Whether you are a sport club, community group, or organisation, this early phase helps you clarify the purpose, target group, expected outcomes, and available resources.
A key early task is to appoint or select a coordinator (or contact person) who will guide the process from start to finish. In smaller clubs or associations, this role can be part-time or shared — what matters is that it is clear and visible.
▸Mentoring programme roadmap – at a glance
| Step | Stage | Typical timing | Main responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Recruitment & Screening | 4–6 weeks before start | Coordinator |
| 2 | Orientation & Training | 2–3 weeks before start | Coordinator + Mentors |
| 3 | Matching & Introductions | 1–2 weeks before start | Coordinator |
| 4 | Kick-off Event | Week 0 | Coordinator + Partners |
| 5 | First Mentoring Meeting | Week 1 | Mentor & Mentee |
| 6 | Regular Meetings & Activities | Ongoing | Mentor & Mentee |
| 7 | Group Activities & Community Events | Mid-programme | Coordinator |
| 8 | Final Reflection & Celebration | Last 1–2 weeks | Coordinator + Pairs |
The eight steps
▸1Recruitment and screening
Recruitment typically begins 4–6 weeks before the programme starts. Screening is a supportive readiness check, not a test.
▸2Orientation and training
Orientation is usually held 2–3 weeks before the start so participants share a common understanding before matches begin.
▸3Matching and introductions
Matching should consider location, language, interests, availability, and comfort.
▸4Kick-off event
The kick-off sets the tone with a welcoming, informal, movement-based atmosphere.
▸5First mentoring meeting
The first one-to-one meeting builds trust, clarifies expectations, and sets initial goals.
▸6Regular meetings and activities
Consistency matters more than perfect scheduling; short, regular contact is powerful.
▸7Group activities and community events
Mid-programme group activities strengthen community and confidence.
▸8Final reflection and celebration
Celebrate progress, gather feedback, and plan the post-programme pathway.
Quick check-in
Select the best answer for each question, then click Check answers. You’ll see feedback and the correct answer for each question.
1. When should orientation typically take place?
2. Which criterion matters most for matching?
3. What’s the best first contact idea for a new pair?
Reflection (optional)
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