Inaugural School Sport Australia Games to launch on Gold Coast

School Sport Australia has partnered with the Queensland Government to launch the inaugural School Sport Australia Games on the Gold Coast.

Other event partners include Experience Gold Coast, Uni Sport Australia and Struddys.

The inaugural event being held from 27th July – 3rd August 2024 is anticipated to attract over 4000 spectators and participants competing across six sports: AFL, basketball, hockey, netball, softball and swimming.

Looking to create more opportunities for students to take part in competitive sport, the event will see teams from all states and territories represented and come together for an exciting five days.

QLD Minister for Sport Mr Michael Healy noted “having the inaugural School Sport Australia Games in a multi-sport format here on the Gold Coast will be a fantastic experience for young athletes across the country.

“School Sport Australia competitions have unearthed some of the country’s most talented young athletes and do it in an atmosphere of learning and friendship.

“It simulates an international style event, delivering cultural and social benefits, as well as a lot of fun and some great memories.”

Making the announcement at the official launch event, alongside Experience Gold Coast Chief Executive John Warn at the Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre, School Sport Australia Chief Executive Phil Reeves said the event would be a highlight for students and parents.

Reeves enthused "School Sport Australia is thrilled to announce the launch of the inaugural School Sport Australia Games, delivered by UniSport Australia, on the Gold Coast.

“This represents a significant milestone in the landscape of representative school sports, and we are staging six of our Championships at the onetime.

“This multi-sport event will be staged at the same time as the Paris Olympics and no doubt will be a fantastic pathway towards participating in Queensland in 8 years’ time at our own Games in 2032.

 Reeves added "the School Sport Australia Games will give all students an unforgettable sporting and educational experience.

“This would not be possible without the major support of the Queensland Government, and our event partners like Experience Gold Coast, Uni Sport Australia and Struddys.”

Students aged 10-19, accompanied by parents and friends will travel from across Australia, delivering another boost to Queensland tourism.