Encouraging young Brazilians to practice sport: this is one of the main missions of the Brazilian Olympic Committee, which, in partnership with the Ministry of Sport, is responsible for organizing the Student Games – a project that includes both the School and University Games.

The first phase of the 2008 School Games begins next week, and will run from 18 to 28 September, in Poços de Caldas, Minas Gerais State. Around 2,800 young people from 12 to 14 years will represent 800 public and private sector schools from 21 states and compete in nine sports (handball, basketball, athletics, futsal, judo, swimming, table tennis, volleyball and chess). The second phase of the Games, for 15 to 17 year olds, will run from 6 to 16 November, in João Pessoa, the capital of Paraíba State.

In 2005, the School Games were founded, replacing the Brazilian School Games in the country’s sporting calendar, which had been held 26 times. In June of this year, the University Games brought together 3,200 participants of 18 to 28 years of age in Maceió, Alagoas State, for 10 days of competitions.

Together, these sporting events are making a major contribution to discovering new talents and building up Brazilian sport. They also promote social inclusion and healthy lifestyles.