Close to 700 young First Nations athletes from across Quebec to celebrate student success and healthy lifestyle habits at Laval University's sports complex

QUEBEC CITY, May 10, 2018 /CNW Telbec/ - The First Nations Education Council (FNEC) is proud to kick off the 11^th edition of its Inter-school Games taking place from May 10 to 13, 2018, at Laval University's Pavillon de l'éducation physique et des sports (PEPS).

Since its inception, in 2008, this friendly competition has grown in popularity. When the Inter-school Games were held for the first time, 140 athletes and chaperones took part. At this year's Games, some 700 young athletes between the ages of 10 and 18 will be representing 22 First Nations schools in 16 communities across Quebec.

In conjunction with participating communities, the FNEC uses this sporting event to promote physical activity and generate a positive influence on student health, well-being and education. Year after year, the Inter-school Games attracts hundreds of participants to compete in four sports: floor hockey, volleyball, basketball and track and field.

Impetus for the Inter-school Games

A study carried out by the FNEC revealed that the majority of its 22 member communities were without a sports and recreation policy, and that half of them had no programs of that kind in place due to a lack of funds and infrastructure.

In 2008, in response to these findings, the FNEC decided to create a regional sports event: the First Nations Education Council Inter-school Games.

Over the years, a wonderful partnership has been established between students, schools and the FNEC. Schools have used participation in the Games as an incentive for students to stay in school by encouraging school attendance and commitment to fitness training, as well as improving academic performance.

Organizing a gathering of this size requires considerable financial resources on the part of both the FNEC and participating communities. That is why the FNEC is pleased to highlight the generous contribution made by its major sponsors.

In addition to the sports competitions, a variety of ceremonies and activities are being held at different times during the Games. We are delighted to have the Chief of the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador, Mr. Ghislain Picard, with us tonight to officially open the FNEC Inter-school Games.

For the Games program, go to www.inter-schoolgames.com.

SOURCE First Nations Education Council