The New York City Department of Education (DOE) today announced the start of the Big Apple Games, which offer free recreational activities during the summer for children from 8-19 years old. The Big Apple Games are run by the DOE’s Public Schools Athletic League (PSAL), which oversees competitive sports in public schools during the school year. This summer, the Big Apple Games will be held from July 7 to August 14 at 61 sites in all five boroughs and will include basketball, softball, baseball, volleyball, swimming, football, soccer, lacrosse, cross country, and track and field. Arts and crafts activities will also be available. Children can register daily at each site throughout the six-week program.

    “We are offering terrific athletic programs that are fun and a healthy form of exercise for youngsters at all levels of abilities,” said Eric Goldstein, Chief Executive of School Support Services. “We have clinics for beginners and tournaments for the more experienced. There is something for everyone, so there is no excuse to sit at home this summer.”

    In addition to regular programming, the Big Apple Games will host special events with professional athletes from the New York City area. These include basketball clinics with players from the New Jersey Nets, the New York Liberty, and the Harlem Magic Masters “show” team. There also will be opportunities to see the New York Dragons of Arena Football League.

    The Big Apple Games is in its 29th year of operation. Last year more than 42,000 children participated across New York City. It is partially sponsored by Snapple, and for the Nets/Liberty basketball clinics students will be given special uniforms and free lunch as part of a sponsorship from Forest City Ratner Companies.

    The PSAL also offers Junior Lifeguard Training instruction this summer at 12 pools citywide.  Select sites will also be offering programming for children with special needs.  Certified teachers and school safety officers will be on-site at all programs.

    For a list of Big Apple Games activities and locations, families can call 311.

Contact:  David Cantor / Margie Feinberg (212) 374-5141