The global athletics community comes together once again to celebrate Kids’ Athletics Day on Thursday (7 May) marking five years of inspiring children to move, play, and discover the joy of athletics.
The campaign is focussed on connection, creativity, and shared purpose: getting more children moving, more often, through athletics.
Across Europe and beyond, innovative programmes are helping bring this vision to life. One standout example is the Spraoi Games initiative from Athletics Ireland—a model of best practice that shows how athletics can be introduced to children in a way that is inclusive, engaging, and fun.
A Playful Pathway into Athletics
Spraoi Games is designed for primary school children, offering a playful introduction to the fundamental movements at the heart of athletics: running, jumping, and throwing.
Through carefully structured games and activities, children develop essential motor skills such as coordination, balance, and agility—all while building confidence and enjoying being active.
At its core, the programme removes pressure and prioritises enjoyment. As Pat Ryan of Athletics Ireland explains: “We wanted the children to have an opportunity to participate in athletics in a non-pressurised environment, to run, jump, throw, get a taste of the different athletic events.”
This philosophy aligns perfectly with the spirit of Kids’ Athletics Day—creating positive first experiences that encourage lifelong participation.
Participation First, Always
Rather than focusing on competition, Spraoi Games places participation at the centre. Every child is encouraged to take part, explore, and find what they enjoy most.
“We want them to just enjoy athletics… where the focus was on participation rather than competition. Enjoy the sport, fall in love with our sport and then discover what branch of it they want to proceed with,” said Ryan.
Children typically experience a balanced mix of activities. He explains: “They participate in one running event, typically 60 metres or less, one throwing even and also a jumping event, a standing long jump, with the option of a relay as well.”
This simple, structured approach ensures that every child experiences the diversity of athletics in a manageable and enjoyable format.
Inclusion Through Teamwork
A key strength of Spraoi Games is its commitment to inclusivity. Activities are adaptable for all ability levels, and the programme fosters teamwork and social connection.
“We want all abilities to participate. Sometimes if a club only had six athletes, we put them together with a group from a different club so that they mix and make new friends,” he says.
This emphasis on belonging and collaboration reflects a broader vision—one where athletics is accessible to everyone, regardless of background or ability.
Supporting Teachers, Empowering Children
Spraoi Games also recognises the vital role of educators. Teachers are equipped with easy-to-use lesson plans, activity cards, and support materials that integrate seamlessly into physical education curriculums.
This makes it simple to deliver high-quality athletics experiences in schools, even for those with limited prior experience in the sport.
By empowering teachers, the programme ensures that more children can benefit from regular, structured physical activity—helping to build healthier, more active lifestyles from an early age.
Creating a Lasting Impact
Ultimately, the success of Spraoi Games lies in the impact it has on children—not just physically, but emotionally and socially.
“We want them to think that, OK, athletics works for me and I have a place and I belong,” explains Ryan.
This sense of belonging is at the heart of Kids’ Athletics Day 2026. As the campaign celebrates five years of global impact, initiatives like Spraoi Games demonstrate how local creativity can contribute to a shared goal—making athletics a fun, welcoming, and lifelong pursuit for children everywhere.
Join the Celebration
This 7 May, communities, schools, and clubs across Europe are invited to celebrate Kids’ Athletics Day by creating their own activities, inspired by programmes like Spraoi Games.
Whether through games, relays, or creative movement sessions, every effort contributes to a bigger movement—helping the next generation discover the joy of athletics.
Because when children move, play, and connect, the future of athletics grows stronger—one step, jump, and throw at a time.