The City of Ballarat will begin hosting the prestigious School Sport Australia Games 03 on Saturday, October 25.
This major event, which will run until next Saturday, November 1, will bring together over 1,500 students and team officials along with an estimated 3,000 family members for a week of celebrating the achievements and competition between our student athletes.
The championships, in partnership with City of Ballarat and the State Government of Victoria, aim to create more opportunities and a greater experience for representative students.
Cricket, Football (Soccer), Golf, Netball, Swimming, Tennis, and Touch Football national championships will be played at a minimum of 15 venues across the Ballarat region, with the championships beginning at Selkirk Stadium for the opening ceremony.
Athletes and team officials from every state and territory will be in attendance, in addition to a First Nations Netball Team, who will compete in the 12 Years and Under Netball Championship.
It is expected the event will generate over $2 million for the Ballarat economy.
"School Sport Australia is thrilled to be in Ballarat for the third instalment of the School Sport Australia Games," SSA Executive Officer Phil Reeves said.
"The event highlights the success of the multi-sport format that we ran on the Gold Coast in 2024 and Moreton Bay in July of this year, where we aim to offer an unforgettable sporting and educational experience.
"Seven sport national championships will run across the city, highlighting the immense school sporting excellence that can be found across Australia.
"Students will also be given the chance to take in their surroundings and learn about the incredible history of the city by heading to Sovereign Hill for an unforgettable educational experience.
"This event would not be possible without the substantial support from the City of Ballarat and the State Government of Victoria, as well as our major partner, Struddys Apparel."
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves welcomed the event with open arms, saying the championships will showcase what one of Australia's most historic cities has to offer.
"This week is about Australia's future sporting stars - young athletes from around the country coming together to represent their states, form friendships, and make memories that will stay with them long after the final whistle," Cr Hargreaves said.
"We are delighted that School Sport Australia has chosen our region as their home for this event. As hosts, we're committed to delivering a smooth, welcoming, exciting environment showcasing not only our premier sporting facilities, but all that Ballarat has to offer on and off the field."
