Third annual Handball Championships returns to inspire children with record turnout
8 May, Melbourne – Camp Australia, the country’s largest provider of Outside School Hours Care, hosted Australia’s biggest handball competition with over 29,000 school-aged children between the ages of 5-12 participating.
Winners from each of Camp Australia’s in-service championships held throughout Term 1 and during the Autumn school holidays battled it out in the Regional Finals on Sunday at one of 10 locations, for a share in the $10,000 prize pool.
Originally designed to help inspire children to get active and motivated about sport following the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns, the competition has more than doubled from 12,500 entrants at inception in 2021. Three years on, the Handball Championships continues to make a positive impact on the long-term mental and physical wellbeing of children and is as relevant as ever.
In December 2022, Camp Australia conducted research with 5,166 families and 130 school leaders to understand ongoing concerns for young children’s mental and physical wellbeing aged 6-12 in Australia.
The results of the 2023 Child Impact Survey revealed 42% of parents reported too much unproductive screen time as one of their biggest concerns for children, with one quarter (25%) also reporting lack of physical activity as a top concern.
Camp Australia Chief Executive Officer, Warren Jacobson said: “The growth of the Handball Championships over recent years is extremely encouraging as we continue our mission of Guiding Children’s Growth.
“This years’ turnout shows us that we can combat the sense of disconnection and inactivity caused by the pandemic if children have the right opportunities to participate in fun activities and to socialise with their friends and family.
“Screens are, and will continue to be, something parents grapple with, but any way we can incorporate good physical and social activities into the daily life of school children helps contribute to embedding better long-term habits.
“Outside School Hours Care programs play an important part in helping children maintain their physical and mental wellbeing, which we know leads to better social and academic outcomes.
“We thank everyone who contributed to the success of this mammoth event. We’re also thrilled to have had several sporting greats step up to offer their support and messages of encouragement to inspire the next generation, including North Queensland Cowboy’s retired Indigenous All Stars representative Ray Thompson.”
Quotes attributable to the 2022 Handball Championships winners:
“I look forward to the handball championships, because I get to meet new people who enjoy the game as much as I do. The championships are super fun and the main event day is a lot of energy. I enjoy the competition,” – Kiyara, VIC, age 11
“Handball Championships helped me keep myself active, challenged and having fun at the same time. I met new friends and improved my social skills too!! I participate every year as there is so much to learn and enjoy!!” – Tanay, VIC, age 10
“Handball awakens your body and you are sure to make new friends. Come and join the fun and I wish everyone the best in the competition” – Malaika, WA, age 11
Photos from the 2023 Handball Championships can be found here: https://senateshj.digitalpigeon.com/shr/TRn5YOyaEe20tgLJ-jXPPw/arFQLW_I5pRLifxB1tjj3w
