History of the Games

History of the Southern Alberta Summer Games

In the late 1960's the idea of a Summer Games was discussed with a committee from the Southern Alberta Recreation Association. Soon after, the Southern Alberta Summer Games were established and the ideas put in motion. 

In 1970, Pincher Creek was host to the first Summer Games. Approximately 1200 competitors participated, ranging in age from 6 to 80 years. An estimated 10,000 people participated in regional playoffs to select representatives from each of the Regions.

Each year, the Games are hosted by a different Southern Alberta community, offering around 20 sporting events, as well as, a variety of cultural events. Over the four days of the Games, over 2000 athletes will participate from the 13 regions in Southern Alberta.

Goals of the Southern Alberta Summer Games:

• To provide an opportunity for the greatest number of people possible to participate in an enjoyable grassroots sports festival.
• To provide a unique opportunity for those in many different sports, age groups, and skill levels to compete in local and regional competitions.
•  To provide a meaningful opportunity for undeveloped sports. 
• To provide a continued opportunity for competitors in developed sports.
•  To provide a "show case" for the identification of young athletes with desire and potential for higher level training and competition.
•  To complement the sports aspects of the Games with appropriate cultural and novelty events.
•  To provide an opportunity for volunteers to develop organizational skills in areas such as coaching and officiating.
•  To encourage collaboration with other sport related organizations.