Young people get a taste of the American Dream in Mid and East Antrim

Almost 200 local young people have been shooting hoops and home runs to celebrate the American Sports Programme touching down in Mid and East Antrim.

The programme started in October and introduces young people from all abilities and backgrounds to American sports, meaning everyone begins on a level playing field.

Three special events in Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Larne celebrated the programme’s success, all thanks to funding from the EU PEACE IV Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The events were organised by the team at 173 Events Ltd.

The young people got to try out their ‘JagTag’ skills, which is a simplified tag version of American Football created by the Jacksonville Jaguars and is suitable for all abilities. Other American themed activities included rodeo bull riding, and basketball.

Hip-hop dance also made an appearance as everyone got their bodies poppin’ in true Tik Tok style. American sports weren’t the only thing on the menu as attendees tucked into hot dogs, fries and a silent cinema experience.

John Hunter from Community Sports Network, who managed the American Sports Programme said: “Using American sports as a theme provides a neutral starting point and allows everyone to join in as a beginner. These young people have thoroughly enjoyed learning the basic skills of American football whilst keeping fit and making new friends from all sections of the community.”

“Sport often brings people together and this programme has been a perfect example of that. I’m so proud of what these young people have achieved and hope that they all leave with happy memories and continue using their new found sports skills.”

Marjorie Hawkins, Chair of the PEACE IV Partnership Board added: “It’s great to see so many young people trying new sports and learning new skills. The Mid and East Antrim PEACE IV Children & Young People events have benefitted more than 800 young people. This is something we are very proud of and what better way to celebrate this particular programme’s success by wrapping up in style at these fantastic events. It’s been a very worthwhile programme and will hopefully inspire the next generations to keep trying new things and meeting new people.”

For more information on any of the PEACE IV projects go to www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/PeaceIV