DIF Soldaterprojekt: Protecting the Protectors

Already separated by thousands of miles from their family and loved ones, the men and women of the armed forces undergo experiences that can make it difficult to rejoin the society they have given years of their lives to protect. Many veterans, when they return home, suffer from alienation. They feel as though they’ve left some crucial part of themselves behind. And many of them have. Alongside physical wounds and disfigurements, veterans report feelings of anxiety, exhaustion and depression - all common symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, a condition that can prove no less disabling.

Founded in 2011, the DIF Soldaterprojekt helps Danish veterans reintegrate into society by facilitating their involvement in sport. Regular activities such as basketball and football matches not only contribute significantly to the recovery of physical and mental well-being; they bring veterans into contact with other veterans, reducing the isolation that lies behind much of their distress. Having a routine time and place for an activity is extremely helpful in reintroducing veterans into civilian life, which, coming after the rigid structure of the military, can sometimes seem frighteningly shapeless and chaotic.

Throughout September, close to forty teams from Denmark’s football, handball and hockey leagues are showing their support for the DIF Soldaterprojekt by incorporating the campaign logo into the design of their shirts. We’re deeply proud to be hosting exclusive auctions for all of these limited-edition match-worn & signed shirts on our website and app, giving sports fans worldwide the opportunity to get their hands on unique memorabilia from such teams as FC Midtjylland, FC Nordsjælland, FC København and Randers FC. To check out these auctions, click here!