A new national tradition began in 2021 when the DANISH WEEK OF SPORT got underway for the first time. Thousands of sports associations, clubs, and municipalities opened their doors to offer public training sessions, while numerous other events across the country attracted thousands of local participants. Held in tandem with the annual European Week of Sport, this initiative is designed not only to get people moving but also to encourage them to try sports and exercises that they haven’t attempted before.
Supported by five major domestic national sports organisations, the DANISH WEEK OF SPORT has now become a national showcase for almost every sport and form of exercise. Thousands of local events take place during a single autumn week, connecting individuals with their local communities and sports organizations. Special focus is also placed on those who are not already involved in some form of sport or motion activity.In addition to the chance to use local sports facilities, the DANISH WEEK OF SPORT offers participants the opportunity to exercise in a variety of different locations, such as the countryside, schools, and workplaces.
The DANISH WEEK OF SPORT is also about meeting new people and stepping out of your comfort zone. By trying out new sports, participants make new friends in different settings.
Founded by DIF, DGI, ISCA, the Danish School Sport Federation and the Danish Federation for Company Sport, DANISH WEEK OF SPORT takes place every year in October. Participating sports clubs and other organisations agree to hold “tryout days” for non-members, where everyone is welcome to take a free tour of the facilities and try their hand at playing or training.
However, the event offers much more than visits to local sports clubs. Anyone can arrange an event by registering their activity in a national online calendar. These local activities are also held at locations across the country, both indoors and outdoors. Employees and school pupils are invited to get involved in events at their place of work or study, while activities are also held in local parks, plazas and other public spaces. Certain days in the week are dedicated to so-called “signature projects” such as Friday Night Skate, the Halloween Run, Danish School Sport Day, Martial Arts and Combat Sports for All and National Workplace Activity Week.
The basic concept of the European Week of Sport and DANISH WEEK OF SPORT is transferable to most locations and cultures. Before its launch in Denmark, the cooperation of leading grassroots sports bodies was secured and extensive preparation took place. In addition to sports governing bodies, it was necessary to collaborate with companies and educational institutions to ensure that students and employees could participate.
The organisers of DANISH WEEK OF SPORT are ready to share their experiences of turning this vision into reality. More details are available here
