International Children's Games – Youth organization of cities global friendship through sports

4 days ago

Today we focus on a swimmer who has competed previously at the International Children's Games who is making waves in her sporting discipline. At just 17 years old, German swimmer Milena Auer is already showing the discipline, resilience and balance required of a high-performing student-athlete.Milena, who trains with DSW 1912 Darmstadt, specialises in breaststroke and individual medley events, particularly the 200m distances. Alongside swimming, she also plays handball, believing the team environment and friendships from the sport provide an important balance to the intense demands of elite swimming.Her weekly routine is demanding. Milena trains up to nine times a week, including early morning sessions before school, afternoon water training, strength and conditioning work, and weekend double sessions. Despite the heavy schedule, she continues to balance both sport and academics with determination and maturity.One of the highlights of Milena’s sporting journey came at the International Children’s Games in Leon, Mexico 2023, where she proudly represented her city and country on the international stage. The experience left a lasting impression on her, not only because of the friendships and memories created, but also because she captured the bronze medal in the Girls’ 200m Breaststroke event.Milena shared that competing at the ICG was one of the most memorable experiences of her career so far, describing the Games as an exciting and meaningful celebration of youth sport, teamwork and international friendship.Although swimming is often viewed as an individual sport, Milena emphasised the strong sense of team spirit within her training group. She enjoys training and competing alongside teammates, supporting one another during relays and competitions, and believes this environment pushes her to improve every day.Looking ahead, Milena is still exploring what the future may hold after school, but she is certain that sport will continue to remain an important part of her life. With her positive mindset, humility and dedication, Milena represents the true spirit and values of the International Children’s Games. ... See MoreSee Less

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The International Children's Games

5 days ago

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The International Children's Games

5 days ago

With just 83 days to go to the start of the International Children’s Games (ICG) Hualien 2026, we turn our attention to basketball, traditionally one of the most hotly contested and exciting sports at the Games. This year’s 3x3 basketball competition will take place at the Hualien County Guofeng Junior High School courts, a well-known sporting venue in Hualien that seats approximately 1,200 spectators. Over the years, the venue has hosted numerous inter-school basketball championships, youth development tournaments and regional competitions, making it a familiar stage for many young athletes in eastern Taiwan.The boys’ competition this year will feature 24 cities and 96 participants, while the girls’ competition will see 9 cities and 36 competitors battling for honours on the court. (these numbers may vary closer to the games) Known for its fast pace, intensity and dramatic finishes, basketball at the ICG consistently draws strong support from athletes, coaches and spectators alike. With talented teams arriving from around the world, Hualien 2026 promises thrilling action, fierce rivalries and unforgettable moments as young athletes compete in the true spirit of friendship, teamwork and international sport. ... See MoreSee Less

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The International Children's Games

3 weeks ago

With just 95 days to go to the start of the International Children’s Games (ICG) Hualien 2026, we turn our attention to football, one of the most competitive sports at the Games. Known for its high standards of play and strong spectator appeal, football consistently draws large crowds and delivers exciting, closely contested matches. This year’s competition will take place at Hualien Mei Lun Junior High School on an artificial turf pitch certified by FIFA, providing an excellent setting for top-level youth football. Interest in the sport is further heightened as 2026 is also a World Cup year, with the tournament taking place across the United States, Mexico and Canada, generating even greater global excitement around football.Approximately 193 (124 boys and 69 girls) participants will compete in the football competition this year. The boys’ competition will feature 16 teams, while 9 teams will compete in the girls’ category. Defending champions Plock (boys) and Bratislava (girls) will both return to defend their titles. At the previous edition of the Games, the boys’ podium saw Plock take first place, followed by Bangkok in second and Siauliai in third, while the girls’ competition was won by Bratislava, with Reykjavik finishing second and host city Tallinn securing third. With strong teams returning and new challengers emerging, we can expect another highly competitive and entertaining football tournament in Hualien. ... See MoreSee Less

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The International Children's Games

1 month ago

The 59th International Children’s Games “Olympia – Ilida 2027” continues to gather strong momentum following a joint meeting of the Board of Directors, Informative Committee and Organising Committee held at the Ancient Olympia City Hall.The meeting reflected a shared commitment and unity between the municipalities of Ancient Olympia and Ilida, as both cities work closely together to deliver a Games of global significance rooted in their rich heritage. Leading the discussions were Mayor Aristides Panagiotopoulos of Ancient Olympia and Mayor Christos Christodoulopoulos of Ilida, supported by key officials, committee members and partners.Detailed operational and technical plans were reviewed, with clear timelines established for upcoming milestones. A key focus is the official presentation at the International Children’s Games Hualien 2026 in Taiwan, where Olympia and Ilida will receive the Games flag as the next host cities.Beyond sport, the vision for Olympia – Ilida 2027 is to create a meaningful international platform that celebrates Olympism and the values of peace, friendship and cultural exchange. The Games aim to leave a lasting legacy through youth development, infrastructure and global connections.Both municipalities remain fully aligned and committed to delivering an outstanding edition of the International Children’s Games in 2027.(Information and pictures by Nikos Tzanakos, Exec Comm of the ICG) ... See MoreSee Less

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The ICG is not just a competition — it bridges cultures and promotes peace, friendship and understanding among youth from around the world.

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The International Children's Games

Chinese Taipei

August 1 - 6, 2026