Marseille Sports Program Engages 5,000 Youths Through Holiday Activities

The City of Marseille engaged 800 children in climbing, archery, rugby, and boxing during the recent school holidays through its municipal sports program, according to a report published by La Marseillaise. The initiative, known as “Tremplin du Sport,” provides multi-sport introductory sessions for youths aged 6 to 14 across the municipality’s sectors.

Municipal Sports Program Expands Access to Eight Sectors Across Marseille

City officials organized eight distinct sporting events throughout the various sectors of Marseille during the school holiday period to maximize participation among local youth. Eric Mery responsible for sports, stated that the program aims to foster physical activity and instill sporting values among children.

“It is important for us to introduce different sports. And who knows, perhaps we will create vocations,” Mery said in the report by La Marseillaise. Since the launch of Tremplin du Sport, approximately 5,000 young residents have participated in the athletic initiations.

Social Centers and Public Participation Without Reservation Requirements

Organizers structured the holiday program to welcome both organized groups from local social centers and individual participants from the general public. While local social organizations maintain regular communication with the municipality to secure slots, sessions remain open to all eligible children without requiring advance registration.

“Social centers are well aware of it now, so we always have a nice turnout. But the general public knows less,” Mery noted, emphasizing the city’s outreach efforts to draw children from diverse neighborhoods.

Corderie Social Center Group Joins Friday Closing Sessions

A group of twelve participants aged 11 to 15 attended the Friday afternoon session accompanied by youth workers from the Corderie social center, marking the conclusion of the holiday week schedule. Favorable weather conditions and the variety of offered disciplines contributed to high engagement levels among the teenagers.

“It’s a cool project, because often it’s hard to interest them,” said Moon, a youth worker at the Corderie social center. “The good weather and the fact that the activities change regularly motivate them even more.”

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