A Celebration of Youth Sports: UAE School Games Finals 2023
The finale of the second edition of the UAE School Games took place at the Dubai Exhibition Center (DEC) in Expo City Dubai, showcasing a vibrant display of athletic talent among the nation’s youth. Organized by the Ministry of Sports and the UAE National Olympic Committee in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and various sports federations, the event drew participants from across the UAE, highlighting the importance of sports in education.
Glorious Closing Ceremony
The closing ceremony was a grand affair, attended by key figures in the sports and education sectors. Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, the Minister of Sports, was present alongside eminent officials such as Issa Hilal Al Hazami, Chairman of the Sharjah Sports Council, and Aisha Miran, Director General of Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). During this celebratory event, Falasi honored the achievements of 1,365 students who emerged victorious from a pool of 2,686 finalists in various competitions.
A Platform for Young Talent
Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi emphasized the pivotal role that the UAE School Games Championship plays in shaping the future landscape of sports in the country. He remarked, “This initiative reflects our dedication to integrating sports into the school environment, encouraging healthy competition, and instilling core values such as discipline, teamwork, and national belonging in our youth.” His comments underscore the commitment to finding and nurturing young talent from an early age, marking a vital step in the advancement of Emirati sports.
The Minister further highlighted how the School Games serve as a comprehensive model of collaboration between education and sports sectors, aligning with the UAE’s vision to incorporate athletics within academic settings. As part of these efforts, systematic talent identification programs are being developed in partnership with the UAE National Olympic Committee.
A Showcase of Competitive Spirit
The finals featured intense competition among students aged 9 to 17, representing an impressive 875 schools from various emirates within the UAE. Athletes competed in 12 sports disciplines, including athletics, swimming, fencing, badminton, judo, taekwondo, archery, football, jiu-jitsu, shooting, chess, and table tennis. The diversity of sports made for a thrilling display of skills, tenacity, and sportsmanship, bringing together a spectrum of talent and passion.
Awards and Recognition
The competition culminated in an exhilarating awards ceremony that honored the top three performers in each sport. A total of 1,365 students were celebrated with gold, silver, and bronze medals, recognizing their outstanding achievements and dedication. This moment not only fostered a sense of accomplishment among the participants but also reinforced the importance of hard work and perseverance.
Inclusive Participation
The UAE School Games promote inclusivity by welcoming both public and private schools from across the country. This multi-stage event starts at the school level, where students engage in training and local competitions. The second stage occurs at the emirate level, leading to a final stage where top-performing students from each emirate compete to determine the championship winners. This structured approach ensures that a wide array of young talent has the opportunity to shine and develop.
Talent Development Initiatives
Medal winners from selected sports are invited to participate in athlete assessment and development programs organized by the Emirates Committee for Elite and High-Level Sports. These assessments evaluate athletes’ speed, strength, endurance, and physical characteristics. Based on these evaluations, tailored training and educational programs are provided to support each athlete’s growth. The Committee, in collaboration with national sports federations, is committed to monitoring each athlete’s progress with a goal of preparing them for international and Olympic competitions.
A Vision for the Future
The primary objective of the UAE School Games is to discover and nurture sporting talent within schools, creating a pipeline of skilled athletes through carefully crafted training and development programs. By empowering young athletes, this initiative not only strengthens national teams but also plays a crucial role in advancing the National Sports Strategy 2031 objectives. With ongoing commitment and support, the UAE is on a promising path toward establishing itself as a powerhouse in the international sports arena.
