Sport Aurora hosted All Sport One Day to give local kids an opportunity to ‘test drive’ a variety of sports in a recreational, non-competitive environment that is all about fun.
Registration for the free event, sponsored by ParticipACTION, filled within a few days, and last Saturday 66 kids gathered with coaches and instructors at Aurora’s McMahon Park to try lawn bowling, tennis, lacrosse, martial arts, soccer, pickleball, football and rugby, according to Sport Aurora news release.
The organization launched All Sport One Day in 2021 to give families the chance to see if a particular sport is a good fit for their child.
“We have presented this program in multiple seasons and each time we see both new participants and many returning,” Ron Weese, president of Sport Aurora, said. “I think it is time to consider making this one of our pillar programs such as the Breakfast of Champions, All Kids Can Play, Volunteer Recognition, as well as the Coach and Athletes of the Year celebrations.”
Feedback from parents was positive, as well as from the local sports organizations who participated in All Sport One Day, he said.
“The experience given to these children is like no other. The opportunity to try a variety of sports is a fantastic idea — each child is given a great age-appropriate experience and everyone enjoyed a wonderful day,” executive director Laurie Mueller added.
Participating member organizations included Aurora Lawn Bowling Club, Aurora Community Tennis Club/Total Tennis, St. Andrew’s College Lacrosse, Shoshinkan Martial Arts, Rising Stars Soccer Academy, Elevation Athletics, York Region Lions, and Aurora Barbarians Rugby Football Club.
The next All Sport One Day event will take place Sept. 9, with registration opening on Aug. 2 and closing on Sept. 6. (Space is limited.) September events are subject to change, but currently include beach volleyball, softball, archery, and road tennis in the morning session. The afternoon session will include basketball, martial arts, ultimate Frisbee, and baseball. Visit sportaurora.ca for more information.
