Kids learn hoops, hockey, curling, teamwork skills at 1st Jumpstart Games (Guardian)

CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. – Two hundred kids had a chance to get outside and be active Tuesday in Charlottetown. 

Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities hosted its first Jumpstart Games in Prince Edward Island. The charity helps youth whose families face financial difficulties in getting their children involved in sport.

“We want to get the kids in the game,” said Canadian Tire dealer Cameron Beach. “We don’t want the financial barriers to inhibit kids from getting out and getting active.” 

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Kids participate in a parachute activity Tuesday during the Jumpstart Games in Charlottetown.

©Jason Malloy/The Guardian

Go!PEI, Recreation P.E.I. and Boys and Girls Clubs in Wellington, Summerside, Charlottetown and Montague identified the youth, who participated in six stations including floor hockey, basketball, curling and parachute activities at and near Simmons Sports Centre. 

Brett Gallant, a Brier and world curling champion, attended the event and shared a bit of his experience with the youth.

While he has excelled at curling, Gallant also played golf, baseball and soccer growing up.

“Sports allowed me to travel all across Canada, all across the world,” he said. “I have met a ton of new friends through sport, got to work with great teammates and have a lot of fun.”

The event helps kids build skills in sports while also building teamwork skills and giving them an opportunity to interact with their peers.

 “Who knows where our next Brett Gallant is coming from,” Beach said. “Is that he or she here today?”
 
 

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