The International Children's Games (ICG) is one of the world’s largest international youth sporting events, bringing together young athletes aged 12–15 from cities across the globe. Supported by the International Olympic Committee, the Games combine high-level competition with cultural exchange, giving athletes the opportunity to compete, connect, and represent their community on an international stage.
In 2026, the Games will take place in Hualien, Taiwan welcoming over 1,000 athletes from 60–80 cities across more than 30 countries. Athletes compete not just for results, but for the experience of being part of something bigger than themselves, building friendships, gaining independence, and learning what it means to represent their city with pride.
For Chatham, this is more than a trip, it is a chance to re-establish our presence on the international stage and showcase the strength of our local programs. We are proud to send athletes representing both the Chatham Pool Sharks Swim Team and the Chatham Wildcats Basketball Team, competing together under one identity: Team Chatham Canada.
This opportunity reflects the dedication of our athletes, the commitment of coaches and families, and the support of a community that believes in sport as a pathway for growth. For the athletes involved, the ICG is not just about competition, it is about stepping outside their comfort zone, experiencing new cultures, building lifelong memories, and representing Chatham with confidence and pride.
For our city, it is a moment to come together, support our athletes, and show what Chatham stands for on a global stage.
This is bigger than sport. Athletes will travel to Hualien, Taiwan and experience a new culture, new environment, and new level of independence. They will meet athletes from around the world, learn how others live and compete, and gain perspective that extends far beyond the pool or court. These are experiences that shape confidence, maturity, and lifelong memories.
The International Children's Games brings together high-level athletes from across the globe. Our swimmers and basketball players have earned this opportunity through commitment, discipline, and hard work. Competing at this level challenges them to raise their standard, push their limits, and perform with pride as they represent Team Chatham Canada.
This journey represents more than the athletes on the roster. It reflects the strength of Chatham’s community, the support of families, coaches, and local organizations, and the pride of two programs coming together: the Chatham Pool Sharks Swim Team and the Chatham Wildcats Basketball Team. When our athletes compete, they carry the identity of our city with them, showing what Chatham is all about on a global stage.