Athletes of any age and skill level will be able to participate
in one of two innovative summer sports programs.
Two distinctive sports experiences are open for registration through the Greater Columbus Sports Commission (GCSC.) on Feb. 9.
GCSC’s third annual Community Youth Camp presented by The Columbus Foundation will offer kids 6-12 the chance to play more than a dozen sports over four days. Two sessions are scheduled for June 20-23 and June 26-29, both at KIPP Columbus.
Team registration is also open for the sixth annual Community Cup presented by the Columbus Foundation. Fortress Obetz will once again host this team-building event where local companies compete and connect on Friday, July 28.
“Sports is about bringing people together and sharing the ball,” said Greater Columbus Sports Commission CEO & President Linda Logan. “We want to take a national lead in giving everyone a chance to compete in a fun and friendly atmosphere, regardless of age or skill.”
The Columbus Foundation has supported both events since they began and helps the Sports Commission bring more sports to more people.
"An active, healthy community benefits us all. The Columbus Foundation is proud to again partner with the Greater Columbus Sports Commission to offer opportunities for kids to experience the joys and benefits of Community Youth Camp and for businesses to connect and engage in friendly competition through the Community Cup,” said Douglas F. Kridler, president and CEO, The Columbus Foundation. “Community Youth Camp provides young people access to try multiple sports, from activities like basketball and soccer to tennis and yoga, in many cases broadening their horizons by introducing something new. The Community Cup is a dynamic event that welcomes teams from various industries throughout central Ohio for a day of networking and fun. Both emphasize the importance of creating inclusive environments where teamwork, camaraderie, and sportsmanship can thrive."
Community Youth Camp:
Ariana Tyler, director of events, Greater Columbus Sports Commission, said the Community Youth Camp is all about opportunity and will let attendees learn about 16 different sports, with the camp providing all the event supplies.
“We want this to be a fun and inclusive environment,” Tyler said. "Campers can just show up and will get to experience sports they’ve never played before. We hope that will spark a passion that lasts a lifetime.”
She added the importance of having male and female coaches helps the campers “be what they see” while building confidence and learning valuable life skills on the move. Registration for each camp is $250, and Tyler said the Sports Commission is getting sponsors to offer scholarships for kids who otherwise wouldn’t be able to attend. Registration is available at the Community Youth Camp website along with a video recap from last year’s event.
Community Cup:
The sixth annual Community Cup presented by the Columbus Foundation is a one-day challenge open to all businesses and non-profits. Logan said The Community Cup will feature 14 different events for athletes of any skill level. There will be four divisions; so, businesses of any shape and size can get involved.
“The Community Cup Sports Challenge is a great way to build in-person camaraderie with your work colleagues and connect with other local businesses and non-profits,” Logan said. “It’s a great way to meet the community and beat them in a single day.”
There is no maximum to the number of athletes a company can have. Most events require a minimum of four participants. Dodgeball requires a minimum of six participants and Tug of War requires a minimum of eight participants. The 5K Race and One-mile Walk can have unlimited participation. Team members can participate in some or all events that offer a diverse set of challenges that mix competition and wellness:
5K Race One-Mile Walk Basketball Shooting
Cornhole Toss Golf Chipping Football Toss
Frisbee Toss Soccer Kick Hockey Shot
Volleyball Dodgeball Obstacle Course
Tug of War Wiffle Ball Home Run Derby
Participating teams will also be able to earn points for their team and raise money for charity through the Community Cup Charity Challenge that benefits The Columbus Foundation, Mid-Ohio Food Collective, and Leveling the Playing Field.
The popular Tailgate Zone returns, where teams and their families can recharge during the competition. Teams are able to order catering to be delivered directly to their Community Cup tent. Interested participants can visit the Community Cup’s homepage for registration information and additional details.