Primary school students compete at the opening of the National Primary School Sports Competition on August 13. MoEYS
The National Olympic Stadium buzzed with excitement over the weekend as nearly 2,600 sports delegates gathered to kick off the National Primary School Competition for 2023. Featuring 10 sports and 51 events, athletes from both the capital and provinces are set to compete until August 21.
Minister of Education, Youth and Sport Hang Chuon Naron applauded the organisation committee and everyone involved.
“The competition’s main focus is to inspire school sports and particularly to train new generations so they may become part of the national team in the future,” Chuon Naron said during the August 12 opening ceremony.
“This competition was organised to encourage physical education and sports in schools across the capital and provinces. It aims to foster a love of sports among students, promoting their health, intellectual growth, fitness and strong will,” he added.
Huot Seng Try, director of the ministry’s Department of Sports Event Management, said that 10 sports were showcased: football, volleyball, basketball, athletics, badminton, table tennis, taekwondo, boule and petanque and Kun Lbokator.
Meanwhile, the ministry established commissions to lead and judge the competition. The sports were played at six pitches, including high schools and the National Training Sport Centre.
To ensure the competition runs smoothly, Chuon Naron advised the organising committee to follow the rules and prioritise good health.
He noted that the ministry has reformed student sports competitions since 2019 to encourage growth in national sports and provide athletes with opportunities to compete nationally and internationally.
“In order for this reform to be successful, we suggest that state and social sporting organisations continue to make a joint effort with all their spirit, heart and ability to perform their duties.
“I urge the private sector, donors and the public to make material and budgetary donations to contribute to our sports development. Let’s all embrace the slogan ‘one person plays one sport in life’,” he urged.
The competition signifies not just a celebration of sport but a step towards a brighter future in athletics. With eyes set on hosting the Asian Youth Games in 2029, these games might just be the beginning for many young athletes on their road to international stardom.
