Media Releases
January 26th , 2006
Plans Unveiled for Sport Expo 2006
Chairperson Bill Morrissey today released details of a second Sport Expo – a community sports extravaganza in support of KidSport initiatives in Manitoba. Presented by Great-West Life, Sport Expo will be held on Sunday, March 19th, 2006 at the MTS Centre from Noon to 4:00 p.m.
Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz is the Honourary Chair of the fundraising event which will feature interactive sport displays by Provincial Sport Organizations, autograph and photo sessions with professional and elite amateur athletes, an opportunity for the public to get great deals at Winnipeg’s largest Garage Sale of gently used sports equipment and a chance to win fabulous prizes donated to the Optimist Foundation Rainbow Auction.
"I commend KidSport on their work in assisting underprivileged children to become involved in sports, and for being such an asset to our community. Registration fees and equipment costs can be quite daunting for parents trying to make ends meet," said Mayor Katz. "KidSport provides our children with an opportunity to play, build confidence and make friends."
The first Sport Expo held in April 2004 at the Winnipeg Arena raised $65,000. This year’s target is $100,000.
"Sport Expo is an incredible event. I continue to be amazed by the community support we are receiving from our team of volunteers, event participants and corporate sponsors," said Morrissey. "Everyone believes in the benefits of sport and is pleased to raise awareness about KidSport and how it can help underprivileged kids realize those benefits."
Proceeds from this year’s event will be designated for use province-wide. Funding will also be made available to support SportsConnection - a new KidSport initiative that will enable the Boys and Girls Clubs of Winnipeg to expand opportunities for youth during non-school hours and help youth make the transition from informal after school recreation to participating in organized sport with skills-based instruction and ongoing mentorship.
For the public wishing to donate used sports equipment for the Sport Expo Garage Sale, collection depots are available at any Winnipeg Fire and Paramedic Station and all Winnipeg Sobeys stores. Equipment will be collected until Friday, March 10 th.
Tickets for the event are available in advance at all Sobeys stores and through Ticketmaster. A family pass for four people, including one adult (kids under 6 are free) is $10 and individual tickets are $3 each. Tickets can also be purchased at the door on the day of the event Sunday, March 19 th.
Event information is also available at www.sportmanitoba.ca/events/sportexpo.php
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For more information, contact:
Bill Morrissey
Event Chair
488-5120
or
Tess Wilson
Provincial KidSport Manager
926-8351
Email
