Youth Summer Sports Blitz to commence Monday

Youth senator and Sports and Recreation Committee chair FilomenaLeonisa Iakopo, extreme left, poses with the rest of the 19th CNMI Youth Congress in this file photo.(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

The 19th CNMI Youth Congress will be hosting the weeklong Youth Summer Sports Blitz starting this Monday at the Oleai Sports Complex. 
Youth senator FilomenaLeonisa Iakopo, the chairwoman of the  Sports and Recreation Committee, said the totally free program will cater to three main sports—track and field, soccer, and volleyball.

The morning session—from 8am to 12pm—will be for youth 10-13 years old, while the afternoon session—from 1pm to 5pm—will be for 14-17-year-olds.

“One sport a day involved and with a lot of fun other activities in between. The last day of the program on July 29 will be a friendly competition day and gift certificates and free T-shirts will be given away,” said Iakopo.

She said the Youth Summer Sports Blitz is in line with her platform when she ran for office for the CNMI Youth Congress.

“My main goal when I became a senator under the 19th CNMI Youth Congress was to advocate and create sports programs that cater to the needs and interests of the youth. As an avid athlete myself, I understand the transformative impact that sports can have on young individuals. I initiated the Youth Summer Sports Blitz program as an opportunity to become physically active and mentally resilient individuals. The Youth Summer Sports Blitz program offers a wide range of sports clinics, coaching sessions, and friendly competitions,” she said.

As for the turnout, the champion track and field athlete and bodybuilder said they are anticipating the participation of approximately 50 children in the Youth Summer Sports Blitz. 

“Through our extensive promotional efforts, collaboration with local schools, and engagement with various community organizations, I have received significant interest and positive responses from both parents and potential participants,” she said.

This early, Iakopo would like to thank the following agencies, organizations, and companies for helping them with the Youth Summer Sports Blitz: Saipan Mayor’s Office, Run Saipan, Saipan International School, Grace Christian Academy, House of Representatives, Bridge Capital LLC, TurnKey Solutions, IT&E, Coca-Cola, TupeCane Juice, The Shack, CNMI Designs, and Saipan Nails Salon.

For more information about the Youth Summer Sports Blitz or to register, email fiakopo.youthcongress@gmail.com.