It's Game On as the 2026 Summer of Sport launches in Orkney

This summer, inspired by the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, communities across Scotland are being encouraged to embrace sport and physical activity as part of a wider £20 million Scottish Government investment.

Orkney Islands Council, working in partnership with Sportscotland, has secured £51,000 through the 2026 Summer of Sport initiative to provide free opportunities for young people to get active. The programme will be delivered alongside the Pickaquoy Centre and a number of local clubs and organisations.

Chief Executive of Sportscotland, Forbes Dunlop, said: "At Sportscotland, we believe that sport has the power to strengthen communities and change lives. The 2026 Summer of Sport campaign, made possible by Scottish Government investment, is a great example of what can be achieved when partners come together with a shared ambition to make sport more inclusive and accessible.

“We're proud to play our part in helping more young people enjoy the benefits of being active as we celebrate a fantastic summer of sport."

In Orkney, a range of sessions will run throughout the summer, covering activities from football, athletics, and hockey to fencing, netball, swimming and more, with dedicated inclusive sessions also available. Sessions will be delivered across venues including Kirkwall Grammar School, Stromness Swimming Pool and a number of primary schools, as well as visits to Sanday, Westray, Stronsay, Eday, Rousay, Shapinsay, Papay and North Walls.

Councillor Ivan Taylor, Vice Chair of the Education, Communities and Housing committee, said: "We're delighted to be part of the 2026 Summer of Sport and to be able to bring activities to young people right across Orkney. With such a wide range of sports and activities on offer this summer, we hope as many children and young people as possible take the chance to get active and try something new."

Full details of all sessions, venues and booking information are available at www.orkney.gov.uk/summerofsport.