Celebrating the International Day for Traditional Sports and Games 2025

What Is the International Day for Traditional Sports and Games?

People around the world came together on August 14, 2025, to mark the International Day for Traditional Sports and Games. This special day shines a light on old sports that carry deep cultural meaning. Communities from big cities to small villages joined in festivals and online events. They aimed to keep these traditions alive for future generations.

The International Council of Traditional Sports and Games, or ICTSG, led the way. This group works hard to protect and bring back sports from long ago. Based in Florida, USA, ICTSG has offices in places like Kyoto, Lahore, Cannes, and parts of Africa. They help connect efforts across the globe.

Why Traditional Sports Matter So Much

Khalil Ahmed Khan, the president of ICTSG, spoke at the event. He said that losing a sport is like losing a language. Stories, values, and lessons vanish with it. His words touched many hearts and showed how these games link us to our past.

UNESCO started this day in 2021. It goes beyond just playing games. It builds peace, protects heritage, and supports growth that lasts. Traditional sports teach us about history and bring people closer.

New Ideas to Keep Traditional Sports Alive

This year, ICTSG shared a fresh plan called the SRETS Elevation Framework. It has six steps to save games at risk. First, they find these games. Then, they get more people involved at the local level. Next, they push for support from countries. They also team up with groups worldwide. Finally, they make sure these sports stay as part of living culture.

Everyone can join in this work. ICTSG now has over 50 national chapters open for leaders. They invite people from anywhere to apply and help save these treasures.

Women Lead the Way in Traditional Sports

Women played a big role in the celebrations. ICTSG started programs to train female coaches, referees, and leaders in communities. Women have always guarded cultural ways, and now they get more chances to shine.

These steps honor women’s place in history. They help make sure traditional sports include everyone. More women in charge means stronger protection for these games.

A Global Call to Action and Honors

The day ended with the ICTSG Global Declaration. It asks countries and groups to join the revival. They want help to add more info to the ICTSG Online Encyclopedia. This tool shares knowledge about traditional sports everywhere.

ICTSG also thanked the top 100 helpers worldwide. These people work without stop to keep games going. Their efforts inspire others to step up.

Examples of Traditional Sports from Around the World

Think of Mongolian archery or Senegalese wrestling. Picture Filipino stick-fighting or South Asian kabaddi. These are not just fun activities. They carry language, music, rituals, and skills from old times.

As Khalil Ahmed Khan put it, reviving a game brings back a whole culture. It gives voice to the past and a gift to the future. People everywhere can learn from these words.

How You Can Join the Movement

Anyone can help. Play a local game or share stories online. Support ICTSG by joining a chapter or learning more. Small actions add up to big changes. Let’s keep these traditions strong for years to come.