Jumpstart Games sees elementary schools compete with one another

Students from Anderdon Public School were among those competing in the Jumpstart Games June 17 at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg. Malden Central Public School, Amherstburg Public School, École St.-Jean Baptiste, and Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School were also represented.

Local elementary schools competed against one another in friendly competition last week thanks to a Canadian Tire-run program.

The Jumpstart Games were held in Amherstburg for the first time with five schools competing in games at the Libro Centre last Wednesday. Andrea Pilon, franchise owner at Canadian Tire’s Amherstburg location, said they didn’t want to limit it to one school so they invited several schools.

Participating schools in the June 17 event were Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School, Amherstburg Public School, Anderdon Public School, École St.-Jean Baptiste and Malden Central Public School.

Four of the five games were outside with a soccer/baseball hybrid, a soccer game with a tic-tac-toe element, dance, and pickleball. Basketball was held inside the arena.

“Our job is to raise awareness about Jumpstart, which is our national charity,” said Pilon.

“Jumpstart is operated by Canadian Tire,” explained Alexandra Turnbull, advisor of communications and engagement with Canadian Tire. “It’s a charity that is focused in reducing barriers for youth to engage in sport and recreation.”

According to Jumpstart’s website, the mission of Jumpstart is to “enrich the lives of kids in need through sport and physical activity.” The vision is to have Canada be a place “where all kids have a chance to fulfill their dreams.”

“It’s about creating access so kids can get in the game,” added Turnbull.

There were roughly 150 students at the Jumpstart Games between the five schools, with students dressed in different coloured T-shirts depending on which school they went to.

“We want them all to tell their family and friends about Jumpstart,” said Pilon. 

Turnbull added they had “great community organizations” able to come out to help the event. 

While it was the first time the Jumpstart Games had been held in Amherstburg, Turnbull added they have been held in other communities across Canada. 

“We do these all around the country,” stated Turnbull.

June is Jumpstart Month, Turnbull added, pointing out the games at the Libro Centre “were initiated by Andrea and her staff.”

“We’re here because of Andrea,” said Turnbull.

Jumpstart Games sees elementary schools compete with one another

By Ron Giofu