Calls for positive attitude to sport as Specsavers Surrey Youth Games end

Held at Surrey Sports Park in Guildford, the final round of games saw 45 children from Reigate & Banstead Borough Council join others from across the county for one last hooray at activities such as street basketball, rugby, judo, boccia and boxing.

The games are open to all 7-16 year-olds but specifically targeted at beginners who might not otherwise be able to attend clubs or are inactive and often put off by the thought of competing against others. Across the borough, over 100 young people have taken part in the games since their launch in April this year.

Children pose with their certificates following participation in dance sessions.

Keeping active is essential

Cllr Rod Ashford, Executive Member for Communities, Leisure & Culture said:

“We all know that keeping active is essential to everyone's mental and physical health, so it’s really encouraging to see so many young people taking such an active part in these games.

“The Specsavers Surrey Youth Games are specifically designed to ensure that everyone can participate, and no one is left out and I want pass on a huge thank you to both the organisers and the sponsors for a fantastic job well done.

“I really hope that participation in these games has inspired everyone who took part to stay happy and healthy and to carry on playing their chosen sport.”

Some of the participants during a basketball game.

Biggest multi-sport youth programme

The games are said to be the biggest multi-sport youth programme of its kind in the Southeast of the country, and a massive celebration for families. They are focused not on competing and winning but joining in and having fun. They are made possible by the combination of volunteers and young ambassadors – previous participants who go to schools and encourage other young people to sign up.

Fran Eke, Borough Team Organiser said:

“It was fantastic to see the improvement in the young people’s ability, as well as their confidence, and to watch the excitement peak when it came to Games Day. It was great to see our young people put what they had learnt into practice, alongside peers from other boroughs and districts. Following these games, we hope that more young people will have a positive attitude towards sport, and maintain the relationships built with local sports clubs.”

The Specsavers Surrey Youth Games are coordinated by Active Surrey and sponsored by Specsavers. We would also like to thank our local sponsors GLL & RLM Locksmiths.

The games were covered by BBC Radio Surrey.