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Registration is now open for this year’s Specsavers Surrey Youth Games, offering free sports coaching sessions to children from low-income households and to those who haven’t previously been involved in sport.
The eight week programme, between April and June, is an opportunity for young people aged between seven and 16 to try a sport whilst meeting new friends, having fun, and enjoying being active.
Coaching sessions will take place at schools, clubs and leisure facilities across Woking, organised by Woking Borough Council in partnership with local club and sports centre coaches after the Easter holidays.
Led by fully qualified local coaches, the sessions will culminate in all the teams coming together for a family-friendly event at Surrey Sports Park in Guildford on Saturday 17 June 2023, where participants will represent Team Woking against Surrey’s other boroughs and districts.
Last year Woking had the highest number of participants out of all the boroughs, finishing second in the Gerry Ceaser ‘Spirit of the Games’ Award for championing the Games’ values of respect, determination, honesty and teamwork.
Age categories and eligibility vary for each sport with opportunities to participate for both boys and girls of all abilities.
- Judo (8 to 12 year olds, boys and girls)
- Tag Rugby (Years 7 to 9, girls only)
- Tennis (Year 3, mixed)
- Dance (Years 3 to 6, mixed)
- Street basketball (Years 7 to 8, mixed)
- Go-tri - indoor rowing, cycling and running (Years 9 to 11, mixed)
Cllr Ellen Nicholson, Woking Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Living Well, said: “The Specsavers Surrey Youth Games is a fantastic way to introduce children and young people, who may not otherwise have the opportunity, to get involved in new sporting activities and get active.
“The council is committed to promoting healthier lifestyles to all our residents young and old and exercise plays a vital role in both physical and mental health. The Games are a great way to trial your hidden sporting talents and develop a love for physical activity.
“Coaching places are limited so I encourage anyone interested in registering to do so as soon as possible before it’s too late.”
A parent from Woking, whose son attended the Games in 2022 said: “I saw the Surrey Youth Games advertised and asked Alex if he would like to try something.
“In the past Alex has been unable to access neurotypical activities and disabled clubs don't always fulfil everything Alex might want to do. Initially Alex was nervous, but the people made him feel accepted and welcome. The teacher was very motivating and encouraging.
“I feel that Alex has grown in confidence. I am so proud of his resilience.”
The Specsavers Surrey Youth Games are run annually by Active Surrey.