This in from the council, in their own words. Ed
Pupils from 32 schools will take part in the popular sporting event which has been held every year since 2008.
Organised by the Isle of Wight Council’s Sports Unit, primary school children compete in seven sports during the day while representing an international island.
Who the schools will represent
The Cayman Islands will be represented by schools from the Bay area, Cowes area schools will be Menorca, West Wight schools will represent Bermuda, schools from the Newport area will be the Western Isles, while St Helena and Greenland will be represented by schools from Ryde and Ventnor respectively.
The sports they will take part in are handball, tag rugby, basketball, netball, hockey, cricket and athletics.
During the day, there will also be a ‘come and try’ zone for people to try a sport. The council’s One Card team will also be on hand to discuss activities at local authority leisure centres.
Big focus on sport
Councillor Shirley Smart, Isle of Wight Council Executive member whose portfolio includes sports and leisure, said:
“There is a big focus on sport at the moment, with Team Isle of Wight competing at the NatWest Island Games, and the England Women’s Football team getting to the semi final of the World Cup.
“Hopefully children will be inspired by that and the Primary School Island Games gives children the opportunity to experience what it feels like to take part in a large sporting event. It also aims to inspire those taking part to lead healthy and active lifestyles and encourage children to pursue one or a number of sports as they grow up.”
The opening ceremony will start at 9.30am with schools taking part in a parade, carrying their team flag before the games start at 10.15am. Presentation of medals takes place from 1.30pm, with the overall winner announced at 2pm. Last year’s overall champions Greenland (schools from the Ventnor area) will look to defend their title.
Legacy of the NatWest Games
The games form an important part of the council’s legacy work following the NatWest Island Games which took place on the Island in 2011.
Spectators are welcome and refreshments will be available.
Programme of events
9.30am to 10am – opening ceremony
10.15am – games begin
1.30pm to 2pm – individual sports presentations
2pm to 2.15pm – overall games winners announced
For more information about the event please contact the Isle of Wight Council Sports Unit on (01983) 823818 or email [email protected] or visit www.iwight.com/sportsunit.
