Over 300 young people from five of the Island’s secondary schools came together at the National Sports Centre for the fourth Microgaming Community Games on Wednesday, 19 June.
The Community Games were set up by Manx Sport and Recreation in 2016 to support the delivery of the Isle of Man Strategy for Sport which aims to get more people, more active, more often.
The Games have been supported by Microgaming through its CSR initiative, PlayItForward, since its inception and once again focused on encouraging 11 to 16 year olds who aren’t actively engaged in sport, to try something different.
This year the Community Games saw a number of changes, including the introduction of ‘Q’, a new sport inspired by Quidditch, bringing the number of sports available at the Games to 17.
Graham Cregeen MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said:
'Sport can often be seen as a competitive environment which can in some cases put people off participating. The Community Games create a platform for those who may not usually get involved in sports, to do so, in a fun, friendly and supportive environment.
'On the Isle of Man we are fortunate to have great facilities, talented sportspeople and committed coaches and volunteers who are passionate about sport and getting others involved. I’d like to thank all those involved this year for making the day possible. Our hope is that by helping these children see sports in a different light, they’ll be encouraged to stay involved or even join a community club.
'Once again I’d also like to extend our gratitude to Microgaming PlayItForward for their support since the start of the Community Games and supporting our Strategy for Sport vision as well as St Christopher’s and Isle of Man Creameries.'
Kate Moughtin, Senior CSR Manager at Microgaming, added:
'The Microgaming Community Games aims to introduce students to sport within a relaxed and fun environment. This year’s event was a great success and we are very proud to see it running for a fourth year in a row.
'Highlights included the chocolate milkshakes from the Isle of Man Creamery, lunchtime yoga challenge, Cricket Factory inclusive equipment, and of course Q. We also couldn’t have asked for better weather. A massive thank you to everyone who helped make the day happen, including our fantastic crew of Microgaming PlayItForward volunteers. We look forward to seeing the Microgaming Community Games in the school calendar again in 2020.'
