Registration opens Thursday for day of free sports for kids in Calgary

Kids learning how to fence Thursday at South Centre Mall in Calgary to promote "All Sport One Day", which takes place August 16 at venues across the city.

All Sport One Day is back in Calgary later in August.

Fencing, speed skating, taekwondo, judo, rugby -- or something completely unexpected could be your child’s new favourite sport.

Kids got a taste of fencing and the chance to pose for a selfie with Olympic champion Kasia Gruchalla-Wesierski Thursday at Southcentre Mall.

On August 16, at venues across the city, kids between six and 17 can try more than 50 sports for free.

The events will be hosted at six multi-sport hubs and more than two dozen other individual sport sites.

Venues include MNP Community and Sport Centre, the Lake Bonavista Community Association, Cardel Rec & Shawnessy YMCA, MNP Community and Sport Centre, Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge, Edgemont Community Association and Westside Rec Centre.

The goal is to help families learn about programs, facilities and opportunities available in their neighbourhoods.

“This event is all about breaking down barriers,” said Catriona Le May Doan, CEO of Sport Calgary in a media release. “Every child deserves the chance to play, to be active and to find something that excites them. All Sport One Day provides that space.”

It’s an opportunity for kids and their families to find something new -- and equipment and experience are not needed to participate.

Online registration opens Thursday at 6 p.m. at sportcalgary.ca.