SPORTS Direct has joined forces with the Youth Sport Trust to offer schools a chance to win free sports gear.

The retail giant, which is owned by Frasers Group and has a large footprint across the UK, is among supporters of this year’s National School Sports Week, which takes place in June.

The nationwide event follows research by the Youth Sport Trust which shows that less than half of children in the UK take part in the recommended one hour of physical activity per day.

Frasers board member Ger Wright says schools and parents can register now with the Youth Sport Trust for a free activity pack and the chance to win sports kit or a visit from a top athlete.

“Sports Direct is delighted to support National School Sports Week. Every school along with parents and families can sign up to join the fun. The Youth Sport Trust has an array of free activity resources on its website.”

The Youth Sport Trust will lead the initiative that will bring together national governing bodies of sport, families and communities to encourage young people to get active. Sports Direct is supporting the event for a third year, with Under Armour joining as a key brand partner.

Ger Wright added: “We know how important it is for kids to stay active and get outside, so it’s been a top priority to ensure this event is as fun as it can possibly be. That said, some of the statistics around the lack of physical activity among children today are quite troubling, so we’re using this as a moment to spotlight that and improve it.”

Research compiled by the Youth Sport Trust found that only 47% of children are meeting the UK’s Chief Medical Officers’ recommended 60 minutes of daily activity (which can include activities such as sport, PE, walking, or active recreation and play).  Nearly a third (30.2%) of children do less than 30 minutes a day. Experts say this is contributing to rocketing child obesity levels and has implications for poor mental health.

 

Athletes backing the campaign include Under Armour athlete and England rugby star Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (pictured). He said, “Sport taught me confidence, focus, and teamwork — skills that last a lifetime. Getting kids involved early is so important.”

 

* National School Sports Week powered by Sports Direct and Under Armour takes place 16-22nd June. For further details go to https://www.youthsporttrust.org/school-support/national-school-sports-week