Chatham, Ontario — Athletes and coaches representing Team Chatham at the 2026 International Children’s Games in Hualien, Taiwan were formally recognized during Monday evening’s Chatham-Kent  Council meeting.

The delegation includes athletes from the Chatham Pool Sharks Swim Team and the Chatham Wildcats Basketball organization, who will compete in swimming and girls’ 3x3 basketball at the internationally recognized event in August 2026.

Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff congratulated the athletes and coaches during the meeting, recognizing both their accomplishments and the significance of representing the municipality on an international stage.

“These young athletes are tremendous ambassadors for Chatham-Kent. Their dedication, teamwork, and commitment to excellence make our entire community proud, and we know they will represent Chatham-Kent and Canada with great character in Taiwan,” said Mayor Canniff.

Councillor Brock McGregor also praised the delegation and highlighted the importance of community representation through sport.

“Opportunities like the International Children’s Games create lifelong memories and valuable leadership experiences for young athletes. It’s exciting to see Team Chatham representing our municipality on the world stage,” said McGregor.

The International Children’s Games provide athletes with opportunities to compete against youth from around the world while building friendships, cultural understanding, leadership skills, and community pride.

The group now turns its focus toward upcoming fundraising initiatives to help support travel costs for the 2026 Games in Taiwan. Residents and local businesses are encouraged to attend events, sponsor the team, and support Team Chatham athletes as they prepare for the international competition.

Hualien, Taiwan / Chatham, Ontario — The Chatham International Children’s Games Committee is proud to announce the athletes and coaches who will represent Team Chatham at the International Children’s Games in August 2026 in Hualien, Taiwan.

Participation in the International Children’s Games provides far more than athletic competition. Athletes will serve as ambassadors for Chatham, Southwestern Ontario, and Canada while engaging with youth from around the world and gaining valuable experiences in teamwork, leadership, and cultural understanding.

Team Chatham will be represented by athletes from the Chatham Pool Sharks Swim Team and the Chatham Wildcats Basketball organization. The delegation will compete in swimming and girls’ 3x3 basketball, highlighting the strong depth of athletic talent and community support across the municipality.

The swim team roster consists of Liam Praill, Caellum Brennan, Finnegan Brennan, Head Coach Bob Lavoie, Renee Egunjobi, Clara Jennen, Olivia Bezaire, and Kallie Barros (pictured left to right).

The girls’ 3x3 basketball team consists of Callie McMullin, Kiki White, Zuri Willder, and Kate Regan (pictured left to right).

Chatham is among the few communities in Southwestern Ontario sending multiple sports to the Games, reflecting the strength of local athletic development programs and the community’s continued commitment to youth sport, inclusion, and active living.

The athletes and coaches will be recognized at Chatham-Kent Council on Monday, May 25, at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers at the Chatham Civic Centre.

The Games are internationally recognized for their lasting impact on young athletes, many of whom go on to become coaches, mentors, and community leaders. The Committee is confident the experience will benefit Team Chatham as athletes return home with new skills, perspectives, and inspiration.

The Chatham International Children’s Games Committee proudly supports the athletes and coaches representing the municipality abroad and encourages residents to cheer on Team Chatham through upcoming fundraising initiatives. For a full list of upcoming events, visit www.teamchathamicg.net.