Registration opens for Specsavers Surrey Youth Games 2023
Training sessions begin after Easter
Children aged 7-16 are being encouraged to apply for this years' Specsavers Surrey Youth Games.
The free local training is open to children across the county (excluding Tandridge) as the programme aims to promote children's wellbeing, as well as making friends, learning new skills and creating healthy habits.
Up to eight different activities are on offer, with options varying for each district and borough, as well as different age groups.
Parents can now sign their children up for the training along with encouraging their friends for the county's largest activity programme - as registration opens today (March 1st).
Training for the games starts after Easter, and lasts for 6-8 weeks, before everyone and their families are invited to the free celebratory event in June.
We spoke with Emma Das, the Lead for the Games at Active Surrey, who is keen for wellbeing to be improved this year: "This year we are really focusing on that wellbeing element, a lot more professionals are seeing wellbeing issues coming up with the children, as a result of covid.
"This will be really good to see kids engaging with other kids, having fun and having that sort of team element.
"The ethos of the games is to have fun, take part and learn new skills really. You might make some new friends, but bring your friends along with you too."
Training for the activities takes place locally, with friendly approved coaches who have the aim of encouraging and supporting children to of their best.
The Specsavers Surrey Youth Games emphasises the importance of taking part and having a go, and are keen for people to get involved who usually may shy away from joining a sports club or team.
"There are kids out there who might shy away from physical activity and they think 'I'm not good enough to do this'.
"This is all geared towards total beginners, anyone can come along and have a try. It's just about giving something a go and it's such a great offer, there's such variety in there."
This year, the programme is offering:
• Boccia (a type of seated bowls for those with additional needs)
• Boxing skills & fitness (non-contact)
• Dance
• Go Tri (indoor row, cycle and run – a teens’ fitness boost)
• Judo
• Girls’ tag rugby
• Street basketball
• Tennis
While giving young people a break from screens, three of the NHS’s five steps to mental wellbeing relate directly to what 7-16 year olds will experience by getting involved in the Games - connecting with others, being physically active and learning new skills.
The programme aims to help build confidence in a non-judgemental environment, as well as creating healthy habits for children who may typically not enjoy team activities or physical exercise.
As one parent whose son took part last year put it: “My son was nervous before the first class but the coach helped him feel at ease with humour and clear, easy to follow instructions”
You can register on the Active Surrey website.