Dusseldorf seeks gifted individuals for eleven sports disciplines
In the vibrant city of Düsseldorf, the annual Talent Show took place on Sunday, 4th June, at the Niederheid sports park. This yearly event, part of the CHECK'D sports promotion program, attracted over 300 children, each of whom had demonstrated exceptional motor skills in a test conducted in schools.
The Talent Show featured presentations of eleven Olympic sports, providing a unique platform for the young participants to showcase their talents. The diverse range of sports included Taekwondo, hockey, handball, football, tennis, basketball, athletics, table tennis, judo, swimming, and water polo. Youth trainers from these various sports observed the children's performances, offering more than one sports recommendation to each child.
The event was graced by Düsseldorf's Mayor, Stephan Keller, who expressed delight at the children's enthusiasm. He praised the Talent Show for providing a space for movement-intensive exercises for children who have an abundance of energy and drive.
The Talent Show has a rich history of producing athletes who have represented Düsseldorf at major international championships. Notable alumni include Bo Kanda Lita Baere, Jesse Maduka, and Henri Squire. While there are no current records indicating which children from the 2022 Talent Show have gone on to represent the state capital at major international championships, the programme's success in nurturing talent is undeniable.
Overweight or obesity among Düsseldorf's children is decreasing, and the Talent Show plays a significant role in promoting fitness among young people. Children who tested very well in the motor skills test receive an invitation to the Talent Show, while those who tested poorly receive advice on motor skill development opportunities. Parents of children who participated in the motor skills test also receive suggestions for continuing their child's sporting activities based on the test results.
In addition to the Talent Show, Düsseldorf hosts the "Kids in Action" sports fair, open to all, where the city's sports clubs present themselves and recruit new members. This event offers another avenue for children to engage in sports and physical activities.
Over the years, CHECK'D has created a large database of children in Düsseldorf, and analysis shows that children in Düsseldorf are fitter than generally portrayed in the press. The Talent Show, along with other initiatives under CHECK'D, continues to promote fitness, talent, and a love for sports among Düsseldorf's youth.
The Talent Show, in addition to showcasing various Olympic sports, also serves as a platform for youth trainers to recommend multiple sports to each child, fostering diversity and self-development in education and sports. The Talent Show is an integral part of the city's efforts to promote fitness among young people, offering opportunities for motor skill development and participation in sports, contributing to a decrease in child obesity rates in Düsseldorf.
