Oct 06, 2022
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HOUSTON (October 6, 2022) -- The AAU Junior Olympic Games is coming back to Houston. During a press conference on Thursday, October 6, the Harris County - Houston Sports Authority and AAU announced that the Games will return to Houston in 2025, 2027, and 2031. With these additional dates, Houston becomes the second-most utilized host city in AAU Junior Olympic Games history.
The AAU Junior Olympic Games is the largest national multi-sport event for youth in the United States. Houston has previously hosted the Games three times, in 2012, 2016, and 2021. The games bring more than 15,000 talented youth athletes and more than 40,000 spectators to Houston, helping create positive economic value for the city. In 2021, the event brought in $53 million in economic impact to the Houston area.
AAU President & CEO Jennings "Rusty" Buchanan and AAU Junior Olympic Games Chairman Paul Campbell were both at the press conference to share their excitement and anticipation for 2025 and the years to come.
"It's great to be back in Houston. Houston sets the gold standard when it comes to hosting the AAU Junior Olympic Games," Buchanan said. "The AAU Junior Olympic Games is our shining gem. The event allows young athletes the ability to compete on such a high level and create memorable moments that will stay with them for life."
As one of the premier events in the nation, youth athletes have used the event as a starting point to successful professional careers. Carl Lewis, a nine-time Olympic gold medalist and notable AAU Junior Olympic Games alumni, was in attendance at the press conference and spoke about the importance of the AAU Junior Olympic Games in creating a foundation and pipeline for future Olympians and professional athletes.
"AAU [Junior Olympic Games] changed my life and I'm looking forward to seeing how it changes the lives of all the young athletes," Lewis said. "Thank you to the [Harris County - Houston] Sports Authority and AAU for coming back to the community I love and understanding how Houston loves sports."
For information on upcoming AAU Junior Olympic Games locations through 2033, click here.
The AAU was founded in 1888 to establish standards and uniformity in amateur sports. During its early years, the AAU served as a leader in international sport representing the U.S. in the international sports federations. The AAU worked closely with the Olympic movement to prepare athletes for the Olympic Games. After the Amateur Sports Act of 1978, the AAU has focused its efforts into providing sports programs for all participants of all ages beginning at the grass roots level. The philosophy of "Sports for All, Forever," is shared by nearly 800,000 participants and over 150,000 volunteers.
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