Over 2000 children and young people attended the largest ever Herefordshire School Games Festival this week.
The Herefordshire Summer School Games Festival returned to Halo Leisure Centre in Hereford on Wednesday 2nd July.
Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire and Stride Active were delighted to welcome 2039 children and young people from 71 schools to the event for a day of fun sporting events and alternative forms of physical activity.
The day boasted activities such as cheerleading, weightlifting, netball, football, rugby and much more.
Two inspirational athletes attended the event to inspire our participants. Annasley Park, the ninth unsupported solofemale to row across the Atlantic Ocean, and two-time British Paralympian javelin champion, Dan Pembroke, offered theirsupport and insight to all of our young athletes throughout the event.
Simon Thomas, Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire Deputy CEO, said: “This was the largest Herefordshire Summer School Games Festival to date, and our team from Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire and our partners from Stride Active once again delivered a brilliant day for all those in attendance.
“The feedback received so far has been truly heartwarming to hear, and we are hoping that all the young people will leave with lasting memories of physical activity and sport which will lead to lifelong participation and enjoyment for years to come.
“Congratulations to everyone who made this event possible once again.”
The event was also supported by 261 young leaders from 14schools and colleges in Herefordshire, many of which were former participants who returned to give back to the children attending this year.
Kieram Hallam, Activities Manager for Stride Active, said: “The Herefordshire Summer School Games Festival was an incredible celebration of sport and physical activity.
“A huge part of what made the festival run so smoothly was the dedication and passion of our brilliant Young Leaders from local high schools and colleges; they were outstanding role models, and we simply could not do this without them.
“From our enthusiastic mascot and supportive VIP guests to every teacher, volunteer and staff member who gave their time and energy, we want to thank you for making it all happen.
“Congratulations to every young person who took part. Your smiles, positivity and willingness to have a go are exactly what the School Games is all about. You inspired us all.”
Hoople Group returned as the event sponsor, running their own activity on the School Games Arena.
Based in Hereford, Hoople Group proudly support communities by delivering a range of support services to our local authority and NHS shareholders, schools and academies, private sector businesses and charities.
Jessica Bree, Head of Marketing and Communications at Hoople Group, said: “Our fifth year as official sponsor for the Herefordshire Schools Games saw what must have been the busiest and most energetic year yet.
“As always, it was a privilege to be part of one of the highlights of the school calendar, and it was great to bring our popular table tennis activity back for another year.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for us to further support schools, academies and the wider community, and it was a joy to see the participants and school staff getting involved.”
Since 2012, Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire has organised School Games events across the two counties, inspiring young people to be physically active for life through positive experiences at a young age.
For more information, please visit the Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire website at: https://www.activehw.co.uk/worcestershire-school-games.
