Global sporting brand Decathlon Philippines today brought together hundreds of Filipinos to discover their love for sports through its region-wide event, Free To Play: A Sports Festival For All. This one-day event delivered expert-led classes in various sports disciplines for free, encouraging everyone to try new sports and start their sporting journeys.
In the opening ceremony held at the Decathlon store in Tiendesitas, Pasig, Decathlon Philippines executives, and legendary Azkals midfielder James Younghusband headlined the festivities to welcome coaches and participants alike.
“Free To Play is our way of reaching out and bringing everyone together through sport,” Hans Iff, President of Decathlon Philippines, shared.
“We started Decathlon Philippines with a mission to sustainably make sports accessible to all, and now with passionate teammates, supportive local government units (LGUs) and social impact partners, we offer a playground without boundaries and limitations, where everyone can freely celebrate the wonders of sport with us.”
From the success of last year’s edition in Masinag, Antipolo, Decathlon has expanded the playing field this year. With the support of LGUs, Free To Play program was made available across four Decathlon stores: Decathlon Alabang (Festival Mall Parking), Decathlon Pasig (Frontera Drive, Tiendesitas), Decathlon Masinag playground and parking area along Marcos Highway, Rizal, and Decathlon Clark (SM City Clark Skyline).
Celebrity footballer James Younghusband guides a young aspiring striker during the Free To Play event in Decathlon Pasig.
In partnership with different sports organizations, Decathlon facilitated a wide array of classes – from static to dynamic, from racket sports to mobility sports, from children to adults – giving everyone a place in the Free To Play program.
“Decathlon has provided a wonderful avenue to encourage people from all walks in life to get into sports,” said James Younghusband. “By making sports accessible, it can truly empower communities and inspire a passion for a healthy, active lifestyle.”
The store in Alabang offered classes in climbing and gymnastics, organized by Power Up Gym and Youth Affairs And Sports Development Office.
The Angeles City Sports Office, on the other hand, gave free Arnis classes in the Clark store, while Special Olympics Pilipinas led classes in Pasig, Masinag, and Alabang, which opened up the playing field for people with disabilities to discover and celebrate sport.
“We are beyond thrilled to be able to serve everyone and be an avenue in showing the wonders of sport,” said Iff. “We hope our participants were able to find their newfound passion at the Free To Play event, and we look forward to serving more Filipinos in the years to come.”
