Around 700 pupils from Carrickfergus, Larne and surrounding areas joined Minister Lyons and some of Northern Ireland’s top sports stars today at the Amphitheatre Wellness Centre to take part in a range of sports tester sessions. A second session for pupils from Bangor and the Ards Peninsula will take place at Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex next Friday [28th March].
Speaking at the event, Minister Lyons said: “The Celebration of Sport is a fantastic way to introduce young people to a range of team and individual sports they wouldn’t normally play. It is important for everyone to be more active and today is about giving young people the chance to participate and find a sport or activity they like. Sport should be inclusive, and it is great to see the activities today include disabled sports, which are an integral part of the event.”
Now in its 11th year, the Celebration of Sport is a fantastic opportunity for young people to try out different sports and help them become ‘more active, more often’. For the second year, the Department has partnered with the Councils involved to offer a truly collaborative experience for the children attending. The annual event promotes physical wellbeing and encourages young people of all abilities and from different backgrounds to participate in and appreciate the wider benefits of sport.
Minister Lyons added: “The Celebration of Sport days show how sport can be both inspiring and unifying and it is great to see so many local pupils enjoying new and established sports, aimed at all ages and abilities. Growing participation through events like this can encourage young people to take up a sport, supporting the habit of regular physical activity from an early age. We know the positive mental and physical benefits being part of a sports team or participating in an activity you enjoy can deliver.
“I am pleased to welcome local athletes at the top of their game who are joining in the celebration and inspiring the next generation to pursue their sporting dreams for many years to come.”
Next Friday (28 March) will see over 700 pupils from the Bangor and Ards Peninsula area attend the Celebration of Sport at the Ards Blair Mayne Leisure Centre in Newtownards.