The 2016 School Games is a multi-sport event for the UK’s elite young athletes of school age.
The event seeks to create an inspirational and motivational setting that not only provides our elite young sports people with the opportunity to thrive and perform at the highest levels, but encourages more young people to take part and succeed in sport. The Youth Sport Trust is proud to develop and organise the 2016 School Games, which is supported by National Lottery funding from Sport England.
Fast facts
- The 2016 School Games is a multi-sport event that takes place from 1-4 September 2016 in Loughborough.
- Eleven of the twelve sports will be hosted directly on Loughborough University campus, creating a unique multi-sport atmosphere.
- The competition re-enforces the experience of Olympic and Paralympic Games complete with Opening and Closing Ceremonies.
- The 2016 School Games and its predecessor, the UK School Games (2006-2011), have a strong track-record of providing a springboard for athletes who then go on to compete at a national level. Several School Games alumni went on to be part of London 2012 Team GB and Paralympics GB. The 2016 School Games will give us an insight into the make-up of our teams for both the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as a superb preview of the events taking place in Brazil this summer.
- Around 1,600 of the nation’s finest young sports stars will compete.
- Competition is held in a total of twelve current and future Olympic and Paralympic sports: Athletics, Cycling, Fencing, Gymnastics, Hockey, Judo, Rugby Sevens, Swimming, Table Tennis, Volleyball, Wheelchair Basketball and Wheelchair Tennis
- There will be disability events in seven of these sports: Athletics, Fencing, Swimming, Table Tennis, Cycling, Wheelchair Basketball and Wheelchair Tennis.
Approximately 700 coaches, support staff and volunteers will give round-the-clock support and advice, collectively committing more than 22,000 hours of their time.