Sport plays an important role in building healthy, connected communities. This August, Calgary families will have another chance to explore new ways to get active, have fun and feel part of something bigger.
All Sport One Day, hosted by Sport Calgary in partnership with The City of Calgary, returns Saturday, Aug. 16. This free city-wide event invites children aged six to 17 to try a wide range of sports at locations across Calgary. With support from local sport organizations, volunteers and City staff, All Sport One Day helps families discover programs, facilities and opportunities available in their neighbourhoods.
“This event is all about breaking down barriers,” says Catriona Le May Doan, CEO of Sport Calgary. “Every child deserves the chance to play, to be active and to find something that excites them. All Sport One Day provides that space.”
The August event will feature more than 240 sessions across 50 plus sports, from basketball and fencing to soccer, martial arts, swimming and more. Whether a child is an experienced athlete or trying something for the first time, there is something for everyone. All sessions are led by trained instructors and designed to be inclusive for all skill levels, with adaptive sport options available at many locations. Several sites will also offer drop-in activities for families to enjoy together.
Sessions will be held at over 20 locations, including:
- Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge
- Lake Bonavista Community Association
- Edgemont Community Association
- Cardel Rec South & Shawnessy YMCA
- Westside Rec Centre
- MNP Community & Sport Centre
For many Calgary families, All Sport One Day has become more than just an event. The Aloui family, who first took part in 2023, says it gave their son the confidence to grow as both an athlete and a person.
“We look forward to All Sport One Day every year,” says Aisha Aloui. “It gives our kids the chance to try sports we wouldn’t otherwise think to sign them up for.”
Her son discovered a love for soccer, which began at an All Sport One Day session. “After trying soccer at the event, we signed him up for a local club and he’s since won a gold and a bronze medal in tournaments,” says Aisha. “He’s more confident, more social and more respectful thanks to sport.”
“He learned to share, to be kind and to work as part of a team,” she adds. “It’s not just about sport. It’s about learning life skills and feeling connected.”
All Sport One Day is especially valuable for families who may not have access to organized sport. It is a no-cost, low-pressure way to try new activities without needing to buy equipment or commit to a full season. For newcomers to Calgary or the Canadian sport system, it is also a great way to connect with coaches, programs and community supports.
“This kind of program means so much, especially for low-income families,” says Aisha. “Sport gave my son confidence, and I wish more families had access to affordable options like this.”
“This is community-building through sport,” says Le May Doan. “It’s about creating opportunities, yes, but also about belonging. When a child finds their place on a court, a field or a mat, that sense of inclusion lasts far beyond the event itself.”
The City of Calgary supports All Sport One Day through facility access, promotional support and program offerings. This event reflects GamePLAN’s core principles by increasing access to sport and recreation experiences, helping young people discover activities they might not otherwise try.
For more information and to register, visit sportcalgary.ca. Registration opens Thursday, Aug. 7.
