The competition is open to athletes over the age of 20 in conventional sports such as basketball, beach volleyball and archery, as well as casual games like disc golf, dodgeball and cornhole. Competitors can register as individuals or teams and compete for championships across a single day. The event will involve over 1,500 athletes, including former professionals and Olympians, with former Canada national soccer player Helen Stoumbos overseeing the Games. There will even be non-human athletes, as canines compete in the Canadian Iron Dog competition.
In a statement, Stoumbos explained the festival’s focus on adult amateur sports:
“Every time I talk to some of these athletes, they’re so excited to be able to come to an event that’s celebrating sport for all ages. The festival is open to everyone, but the sports competitions are for adults, and I think that’s really special and really unique.”
The Good Games double as a festival for the community at large. Visitors can participate in pick-up games and activities such as axe-throwing, minigolf, cricket and rugby. There will also be a family fun-zone for kids to compete against each other in classic competitions such as three-legged races and tug of war. The festival also includes food trucks, a live DJ, facepainting and more. Festive events such as this often use methods like poster printing and online advertising to help attract participants and visitors alike.
The 2024 Good Games will take place on the University of Guelph campus on July 6 and 7.