Participant Information
The participants of the BC Winter and BC Summer Games are British Columbia’s emerging high performance athletes, coaches, and officials.
Originally a celebration of sport for all ages, the BC Games have evolved to be an important training ground for young high-performance athletes, ranging in age from 9-18 years depending on the sport. BC Games alumni have represented BC and Canada at competitions like the Canada Games, World Championships, and the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Participants earn their place at the BC Games though qualification events and compete at the Games representing of one of eight geographic zones.
To find out how to qualify for future Games, contact your Provincial Sport Organization.
Find out more about what to do once you've qualified with our Participant Checklist.
How to qualify for the Games
Qualification for the Games varies from sport-to-sport.
Generally qualification events for the Games are held beginning 6 months prior to the Games up to about 5 or 6 weeks prior to the Games, depending on the sport. Qualifications for the Games are coordinated by the Provincial Sport Organization (PSO) and managed by the organization or the Zone Representatives - refer to the technical package for the respective sport (BC Winter Games; BC Summer Games) for contact information.
Step 1: Find Your Sport
See if your sport will be at the next Games and what the eligibility is with our sport packages:
Step 2: Find your Zone
The team that you attend with will depend on what geographical Zone you live in.
Step 3: Contact PSO
Your Provincial Sport Organization (PSO) can tell you when your Zone qualification event is. Contact information can be found in the technical packages:
Step 4: Attend Zone Tryout
Zone qualification events are usually held beginning 6 months prior to the Games up to about 5 or 6 weeks prior to the event. Check with your PSO to be sure!
Guide to the Games
The Guide to the Games is a document produced before each BC Winter and Summer Games designed to fill participants in on everything they need to know ahead of the Games. The booklet has information on accommodation, transportation, ceremonies, the host community, and more.
Prior to the Games, participants can also attend online and in-person G2G Sessions that cover all of the information in the Guide to the Games and give athletes, coaches, officials, and parents a chance to ask any more questions that they may have.
Culture of the Games
The Culture of the Games outlines the expectations of all those associated with the Games to ensure a safe and inclusive experience for everyone.
Zones
In order to ensure participation from every corner of the province, BC Games athletes are divided into eight Zones representing different sections of the province.
Participant Checklist
Read up on the important things to do and review before the Games.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Learn more about everything related to the Games, including information about qualification, registration, transportation and more.
| What sports are in the Games? | See the respective sport pages for the list of sports included in the next BC Summer Games and BC Winter Games. Note that sports may change from one Games to the next, as per our Core Sport criteria for inclusion in the Games. |
| Why should I try to qualify for the BC Games? | The Games are generally a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. As a multi-sport Games, they are more dynamic in nature compared to single-sport competition and help participants prepare for higher level events. Here's what some past participants have said about their BC Games experience: " |
| How do I qualify? | The qualification process for the Games varies between sports. Review a sport's Technical Package (BC Winter Games; BC Summer Games) for specific information. Also review BC Games General Rules for additional eligibility information (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games). |
| When will qualification events be held? | Generally qualification events for the Games are held beginning 6 months prior to the Games up to about 5 or 6 weeks prior to the Games and vary from sport-to-sport. Qualifications for the Games are coordinated by the Provincial Sport Organization and managed by the organization or the Zone Representatives - refer to the technical package for the respective sport (BC Winter Games; BC Summer Games) for contact information. |
| What BC Games Zone am I in? | The province is divided into eight geographical zones. Refer to zone information to determine your zone. Each sport is allocated athlete spots in each zone. Review the Technical Package for the respective sport (BC Winter Games; BC Summer Games) to review the number of spot allocated to each zone. |
| Can I compete for different zone from the one I live in? | BC Games rules require athletes to compete for the zone where they make their permanent residence. Refer to BC Games General Rules for details (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games). |
| How old do I have to be? | In general, the minimum age of athletes competing at the Games is 13 but the age eligibility varies from sport to sport. Generally, coaches are expected to be 19 or older in order to act in a supervisory capacity with their athletes. Review the technical package for the respective sport (BC Winter Games; BC Summer Games) for specific information. |
| How do I register? | Registration for the Games is done through Zone Representatives for each sport or through the sport's respective Provincial Sport Organization. Refer to the Technical Package for the respective sport (BC Winter Games; BC Summer Games) for contact information and contact the Provincial Advisor for your sport and/or your Zone Representative. |
| How much does it cost? | The registration fee is $175 per athlete. Some sports charge an additional fee over and above this to cover qualification events, uniforms, and/or training. Ask your coach for details or contact your Provincial Advisor or Provincial Sport Organization - contact information is available on the Technical Package for each sport (BC Winter Games; BC Summer Games). |
| When will I receive the details of my travel to the Games? | The registration deadline is one month prior to the Games. Within 10 days of this deadline, each registered Games participant will be mailed a letter with a user name and password to log in and access the BC GAMES PARTICIPANT WEBSITE where they will complete forms, download their travel information (if applicable), etc. See Games specific dates on the General Schedule and Games Overview page. |
| How will I get to the Games? | Most participants will travel to the Games on Games transportation, which are charter buses for most and charter air craft for those further away. Participants have the option of making their own way to the Games, at their own expense, if this is permitted by their Provincial Sport Organization. Refer to the technical package or contact your Zone Representative or Provincial Advisor for more information. |
| How much luggage can I bring? | You are allowed to bring 1 checked bag (30lbs) plus your sleeping bag and pillow and a carry on (backpack). There is limited space on the BC Games charter transportation and excess luggage will not be accommodated. Keep in mind that it is not just your luggage that has to be transported to the Games, but the luggage of all the other Games participants. No one wants his or her luggage to be left behind. Please bring only what is absolutely necessary and only what is permitted. Be sure each piece of luggage (including your sleeping bag) is labelled with visible tag including your NAME, SPORT, ZONE and home address.
Be sure to pack your items so that they are easily identifiable - 1000's of sleeping bags packed in green garbage bags all look the same! Excess luggage (i.e. over and above the amount designated) will not be permitted on our charter aircraft or buses. |
| What if I have extra sport specific baggage? | For sports that have been identified by the BC Games Society as requiring additional personal sports equipment (i.e. lacrosse, golf, ringette) or team equipment. Specific luggage information for each sport will be available on the BC GAMES PARTICIPANT WEBSITE.
In addition to the BC Games luggage tag, be sure to attach a luggage tag with your name and address on it to each piece of luggage you are bringing to the Games. While we do everything we can to ensure the safe handling of your property, items like prescription medications, glasses, keys, fragile or valuable items should be carried with you. |
| What should I bring with me? | Be sure to bring your travel itinerary (the information that you accessed online outlining your travel details). If you are on a chartered aircraft, bring your airline information and photo identification (if you are over 19).
You should also pack:
Be sure to clearly identify all your personal belongings! While we do everything we can to ensure the safe handling of your property, items like prescription medications, glasses, keys, fragile or valuable items should be carried with you. While Games accommodation sites are secured, you are responsible for your own items. Bring only what you need and plan to keep valuables with you. |
| What are the Games rules? | The BC Games General Rules outline the eligibility requirements for all participants at the Games and the technical package for each sport outlines sport-specific eligibility, rules, and competition information – click here to review the BC Games General Rules and technical packages. |
| What do I do if I have an allergy or medical concern? | If you have an allergy or medical concern it is IMPORTANT that you complete your Medical/Allergy form PRIOR to the Games. Access to this form will be through the BC GAMES PARTICIPANT WEBSITE.
Completing this form will ensure Food Services and Medical Services volunteers have the information they need to support you at the Games. Even if you do not have an allergy or medical condition ALL participants are required to complete the form PRIOR to the Games. This form cannot be submitted at the Games. |
| What do I need to do before the Games? |
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| How do I access the BC GAMES PARTICIPANT WEBSITE and what information will find on the site? | After the registration deadline each registered Games participant will be mailed a letter with a username and password to access the BC GAMES PARTICIPANT WEBSITE.
Each participant MUST DO the following on the BC GAMES PARTICIPANT WEBSITE prior to the Games:
In addition, each participant CAN DO the following on the BC GAMES PARTICIPANT WEBSITE:
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| What is the Culture of the Games course? | Prior to attending the Games, participants are required to complete a Culture of the Games module. The online module will take approximately 20 minutes to complete and will cover the key principles of the Culture of the Games and the BC Games Code of Conduct. Participants will take the module through the BC GAMES PARTICIPANT WEBSITE. |
| When will I arrive at the Games? | Your arrival at the Games will depend on the Games planning and bus and flight schedules. Your travel itinerary will be available for download/printing on the BC GAMES PARTICIPANT WEBSITE. Be sure to review this for your specific details. |
| How long will it take to get to the Games? | Arrival times at the Games will depend on Games planning and bus and flight schedules. In order to arrive on time, you may begin and/or end your journey late at night or early in the morning. While we realize this is not ideal, transporting as many as 1,600 participants to the Games has many logistical factors that need to be considered. This travel schedule can be very tiring, so plan to get plenty of rest prior to departure and use the travel time to mentally and physically prepare for the competition that begins early Friday. |
| Why do I have to travel with my team? | To ensure the safety and supervision of BC Games athletes during travel to and from the BC Games, zone teams travel together departing from, and returning to, central pick-up locations. This ensures that every athlete is supervised by an accredited adult (head coach, assistant coach, or adult supervisor) from the time they board a bus/flight until the time they arrive at the destination. It also ensures that the zone team travels on the same bus(es) or flight(s) and arrives at the destination at the same time. Participants must provide their own transportation to/from the selected pick-up/drop-off locations. The pick-up/drop off location(s) may not be the closest one to the participants’ homes; however, this system is necessary to ensure proper safety and supervision of athletes. |
| Why do I have to pay a registration fee? | Staging the BC Summer and BC Winter Games takes volunteer energy and financial support. As the recipient of the work and investment being made on your behalf, the BC Games Society appreciates your contribution of the Athlete Registration Fee used as part of the overall funding of the BC Games.
To provide some perspective, we have conservatively calculated the cost per athlete at just under $600, not including competition fees, which can be as much as $250 per event. |
| What's included in the athlete registration fee? | The $175 athlete registration fee covers the cost of travel to/from, and at the Games, meals, accommodation, your competition, special events, and entertainment. Note that some sports may charge an additional fee for qualification events, training, or uniforms - review the technical package for your sport for details. |
| Who do I pay the registration fee to? | Registration fees are paid to your Provincial Sport Organization, who will submit them to the BC Games Society on your behalf. Each sport manages this process differently; ask your Zone Representative, zone coach, or Provincial Advisor for information. |
| What resources are available to help me prepare for the Games? | Our partners, SportMedBC and Canadian Sport Institute, have written some resources that will help you prepare for the Games. Click here for various resources and information.
In the few weeks leading up to the Games we will host online G2G (Guide to the Games) Sessions. The sessions are geared toward athletes and coaches to help them prepare for the Games. Parents/guardians are welcome and encouraged to attend as well to provide support athletes as they prepare for the Games. The sessions are free to attend but registration is required. Registration information is posted closer to the Games. |
| Why should I complete the Participant Bio form? | The participant bio form is your opportunity to tell us about yourself. We use this information to assist our partners Global BC and Black Press in preparing stories for the Games. This information is also used by Games volunteers when reporting on stories. If you don’t tell us about yourself we won’t know. Links to the online bio forms will be available on each Games page closer to the Games (BC Winter Games; BC Summer Games). |
| Will I get a uniform? | No uniforms are provided by the Games. Some sports provide uniforms and/or walk-out clothing or include this in the fee they charge for participation in the Games. Ask your Zone Representative, coach, or Provincial Advisor for more information. |
| What is my Zone colour? | Click here to see zone colours. |
| When will I know my competition schedule? | Sport Schedules will be posted on the Games pages closer to the Games. Generally you can expect the detailed schedules to be available about 3 weeks out from the Games. Refer to the Games page for links to Sport Schedules as they are available - BC Winter Games; BC Summer Games . |
| Will food be provided on the way to the Games? | No, food will not be provided on Games transportation. Be sure to bring some snacks to keep you nourished on the way to the Games. You may also wish to bring money to purchase food on the way and for when you arrive. Your first meal provided at the Games will depend upon your arrival time. |
| Can I stay in a hotel with my parents? | The BC Games rules requires all athletes to stay in Games accommodation. Coaches are expected to stay in Games accommodation to supervise their athletes. Refer to the BC Games General Rules and technical packages for details. |
| I live in the community hosting the Games. Can I stay at home? | The BC Games rules requires all athletes to stay in Games accommodation. Coaches are expected to stay in Games accommodation to supervise their athletes. This ensures that all team members are together and will arrive at their sport venue ready for competition together. It also ensures that everyone has a complete Games experience. Refer to the BC Games General Rules and technical packages. |
| What if I am being dropped off at the Games? What time do I need to arrive? | In order to be supervised upon arrival and to to ensure you arrive in time for any scheduled activities, your Provincial Advisor may have designated an arrival time for your zone. Please confirm with your coach or Provincial Advisor. |
| When will I depart from the Games? | Participants will take their luggage to the Departures Area before they go to the Closing Celebration. Following the conclusion of the Closing Celebration, you’ll start your trip home. If you’re travelling by bus, you’ll find your bus in the departure area. All buses will leave at approximately 3:00 pm. If you are being picked up, you can be picked up at the designated area at the conclusion of the Closing Celebration – details will be to participants and coaches at the Games. If you are travelling by charter aircraft you will be taken to the Holding Area to wait for your flight (do not go to the airport to catch your flight). |
| Can my parents attend the Games? | All competitions are open to the public and are free of charge. Your friends and family are welcome to come and cheer you on and see you at your sport venue. Only Games participants are permitted access to the accommodation sites, food venue, Games transportation, and special events. The Opening Ceremony is open to the public and there is no admission fee; however, space may be limited and a ticketing process may be implemented. Refer to the respective Games page closer to the Games for details (BC Winter Games; BC Summer Games). |
| How can family at home follow the Games? |
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| Where will I stay? | You will stay in accommodation sites with your coaches and other athletes. The local school district provides the use of its schools' classrooms to serve as Games accommodation. The BC Games rules require all athletes to stay in Games accommodation, even those that live in the Games community. Coaches are expected to stay in Games accommodation to supervise their athletes. Refer to the BC Games General Rules and sport-specific rules in the technical package for each Games. |
| Who will stay with me? | All of the athletes for one sport or one sport's gender will stay in the same location. Generally all members of the same gender from a zone team will be in its own classroom; large teams may be divided into two rooms and smaller teams may have others from a different zone with them. Zone coaches or adult supervisors will be in the accommodation with their athletes and will act in a supervisory capacity. |
| How will I get around the community? | Once you arrive in the community, Games transportation will be provided to get you around the Games. Scheduled bus service will get you to/from meals, your accommodation site, and your sport venue. Shuttles will get you to/from special events. Sports travel together, though sometimes a few zone teams will travel at a time. The travel details will be outlined in the Bus & Meal Schedule for your sport, which will be available to your head coach prior to the Games and you will have access to the schedule when you arrive. |
| What will I eat? | Breakfasts and dinners will be served at central food services location. You will be able to select your food items from a buffet-style menu. When you leave breakfast you will grab you lunch and take it with you for the lunch time noted on you Bus & Meal Schedule.
Games volunteers will ensure nutritious meals are provided but that doesn’t mean everything offered will be to your liking. Please be patient and understanding. With as many as 1,600 participants to feed, it is challenging to provide meal options that will be liked by everyone! If you have an allergy or special dietary needs for medical/health reasons, it is important that the Medical/Allergy form is completed prior to the Games. The Medical/Allergy Form will be completed through the BC GAMES PARTICIPANT WEBSITE. The Food Services Directorate has a role devoted entirely to the handling of special dietary requests and will be on site to help you find items that meet your special dietary requests noted in your Medical/Allergy form. |
| What events will be held during the Games? | In addition to the sport competitions, there will be special events, including the Opening Ceremony on Thursday and special events on Friday and Saturday evenings. It is expected that all Games participants attend the Opening Ceremony.
A Closing Celebration Video will be available and emailed to all participants on Sunday afternoon. |
| What can I expect at the special events? | The Opening Ceremony on Thursday is the official start of the Games. The Games participants are the focus of this celebration with the parade of participants. You will parade into the ceremony with your zone and the Games torch will be lit.
On Friday and Saturday nights there will special events that include a variety of activities and entertainment in a carnival-type atmosphere. The special events are a great way to meet participants from other zones and other sports. Your zone head coach will determine if you are permitted to attend the special events. |
| What is the typical schedule for the Games? | Arrival day includes accreditation and checking into your Games accommodation. The Opening Ceremony is held on Thursday. Competitions and medal presentation ceremonies will occur on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Also see The Games schedule and overview. for details. |
| When are medals presented? | Medal presentation ceremonies are held at each sport venue at the end of competition. For sports with many events, medal presentation ceremonies will be held throughout the Games-weekend. Schedules will be available closer to the Games on the Games-specific page - (BC Summer Games, BC Winter Games). |
| Are there any rules regarding my use of Social Media? | The BC Games encourages you to connect with us on Social Media including using your personal account before and while at the Games. Remember to be positive and support and keep the Culture of the Games principles in mind. Please review the Social Media policy and ensure you abide by its principles. |
| What if I get sick or injured during the Games? | Medical volunteers will be at each sport venue during the scheduled competition and practice times. These volunteers, led by the Director of Medical Services, are responsible for the treatment of all Games participants. Medical volunteers are always the first responders to injuries. Medical problems or injuries will be dealt with on-site, if possible. If further attention is needed, transportation to the Games Medical Clinic will be provided. Medical Services are available on a 24-hour basis during the Games. |
| What time is curfew? What happens if I miss curfew? | Curfew in Games accommodation is 11:00 pm for all participants, including adults. Quiet time is at 10:30 pm and lights out at 11:00 pm. No one is allowed to leave Games accommodation after curfew. Anyone who misses curfew will be subject to disciplinary action, which could include expulsion from the Games.
Anyone who misses curfew, which is 11:00 pm, will be subject to disciplinary action, which could include expulsion from the Games*. *Participants expelled from the Games must make their own way home from the Games, at their own expense - see Expectations of Participants for more information. |
| Are there rules for participating in the Games? What happens if I break Games rules? | All athletes, coaches, and officials at the BC Games are expected to conduct themselves, at all times, in the spirit of fair play, in a responsible manner, and within the principles of the Culture of the Games. This conduct is expected from the time they board BC Games transportation (or arrive at the accreditation centre by their own transportation) until they return home.
It is expected that all participants will fulfill their responsibilities. Individuals, teams, or entire sports that fail to do so, will be subject to appropriate discipline, which could include expulsion from the Games*. Remember that you are a representative of your sport; what you do can impact your sport’s inclusion in future BC Games. Anyone who damages Games venues or infrastructure will be held responsible. This may include payment of associated costs and/or disciplinary action. Review the Expectations of Participants, the BC Games Code of Conduct, and the Culture of the Games information. *Participants expelled from the Games must make their own way home from the Games, at their own expense - see Expectations of Participants for more information. |
| Where can I get Games photos? | During the Games volunteers will be taking zone team photos, medal presentation photos, and general Games photos. Team photos will be scheduled and noted in your Bus & Meal Schedule. All photos will be available to download on the BC Games Flickr site. |
| Where will results and Games information be posted? |
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| If I am done my competition can I leave? | It is expected that all Games participants will remain at the Games for the duration. If you’re staying in Games accommodation, you must remain in accommodation until Sunday. Anyone who removes themselves from Games accommodation prior to the completion of the Games will no longer be eligible to compete and may be subject to other disciplinary action.
Participants who finish competition prior to the final day of the Games (Sunday) may remove themselves from Games accommodation by having their Provincial Advisor sign the Release Form. Note that it is expected that early departue is arranged prior to the Games -- please be sure to inform your Zone Representative so that appropriate travel arrangements can be selected for you during the registration process. Also note that some sports do not permit athletes to depart early - discuss with your Zone Representative or Provincial Advisor. Any participant removing themselves from BC Games accommodation is also removing themselves from competition and from BC Games transportation for their return trip. This means that they cannot continue to compete AND will need to make their own transportation arrangements for their trip home, at their own expense. Speak to your Provincial Advisor for more information. Note that some sports require participants to remain at the Games, stay in Games accommodation, and travel to/from the Games on Games-provided transportation – refer to the sport's technical package for details. |
| Will I receive commemorative items from the Games? | Your customized accreditation badge, a Games pin, and a gift item from these Games will be provided as part of the accreditation process. These are yours to keep. You can also download Games photos free of charge from the BC Games Flickr site. |
| Will Games merchandise be available? | Official Games merchandise will be available for each Games. Check out the Games pages for information about pre-Games and Games-time merchandise sales. Prior to the Games, merchandise will be available via an online store. During the Games merchandise sales locations will be available at various locations. Look for details on the Games-specific page - (BC Summer Games, BC Winter Games). |
| Where there be opportunities for practice? | Where feasible, your sport may arrange for one or more of the following on Thursday:
Refer to the Games page for links to Schedules as they are available (BC Summer Games, BC Winter Games). |
| Why do I have to be accredited? | Accrediting participants enables us to confirm who is at the Games and it also a time when you will receive key information, including your Games accreditation badge and the Bus & Meal Schedule and Sport Schedule for your sport. |
| Will bottled water be provided? | Bottled water will not be provided to Games participants. Most communities in BC have superb drinking water. There will be water fountains and/or water stations at every sport venue. Bring a water bottle with you so you’ll be able to keep it filled. |
| Where do I go if I am scheduled to fly home after the Games? | Participants travelling home on charter flights will be taken to the holding area where Games volunteers will provide a comfortable environment to unwind and wait for the flight home. The holding area will have snacks, movies, games, light entertainment, and quiet places to rest. Dinner service will be provided between specific hours. The 11:00 pm Games curfew is still in effect. Refer to the Bus & Meal Schedule for your schedule transportation to the holding area.
Review your travel itinerary carefully to confirm your scheduled check-in time for your flight. Be sure to keep your accreditation badge with you at all times as this will serve as your identification for accessing the holding area and boarding your flight. |
| Where will my child find all of the details they need for the Games? | About 10 days after the registration deadline, every participant will receive a letter in the mail (mailed via Canada Post), which will include login credentials for the BC GAMES PARTICIPANT WEBSITE where they will complete important Games information (such as the Medical/Allergy form), review and correct their demographic information, and print/download their travel itinerary (if applicable). The Guide to the Games, which will also be available on the BC GAMES PARTICIPANT WEBSITE and on bcgames.org closer to the Games, also has information to help participants prepare for the Games. Also check out the Participant Information pages for more details. |
| Are there documents I, as the parent/guardian need to review/sign? | When your child logins into the BC GAMES PARTICIPANT WEBSITE, they will need to download the BC Games Code of Conduct and Waiver, which will need to be completed and uploaded. If participants are under 19, there will also be form that their parent/guardian will need to download, complete and upload. |
| Are there rules that my child has to follow? | In addition to their sport's competition rules and code of conduct, all participants agree to abide by the BC Games Society Code of Conduct and to follow the rules, regulations, and policies of the BC Games Society. This includes following the BC Games General Rules, their sport’s technical package, and the principles of the Culture of the Games.
Also see the Expectations of Participants for additional information. Should any participant choose not to follow these rules, regulations, and policies, their actions may be reviewed and they may be disciplined under the BC Games Society Discipline Process. The BC Games Society Discipline Process can be found here (link to come). Should any participant be subject to discipline resulting in their removal from the Games, they will be responsible for covering all costs related to their travel home. |
| When will my child's travel information be provided? | The registration deadline is one month prior to the Games. Within 10 days of this deadline, each registered Games participant will be mailed information about how to access the BC GAMES PARTICIPANT WEBSITE where they will complete important Games information (such as the Medical/Allergy form), review and correct their demographic information, and print/download their travel itinerary (if applicable). |
| How will my child travel to the Games? | Most participants will travel to the Games on Games transportation. This will be charter buses for most and charter aircraft for those further away from the Games community.
Participants have the option of making their own way to the Games, at their own expense, if this is permitted by their Provincial Sport Organization - refer to the technical package (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games) or contact the Zone Representative or Provincial Advisor for confirmation of the sport's travel rules. Participants living close to the Games community will be required to make their own way to the Games. Travel options will be selected by the Zone Representatives during the registration process. |
| Why does my child have to travel with the team from another community when a bus is departing from the community we live in? | To ensure the safety and supervision of athletes during travel to and from the Games, zone teams travel together, departing from and returning to central pick-up locations. This is what we call team travel and it ensures that every athlete is supervised by an accredited adult (head coach, assistant coach, or adult supervisor) from the time they board a bus/flight until the time they arrive at the destination.
Team travel also ensures that the Zone team travels on the same bus(es) or flight(s) and arrives at the destination at the same time. Participants must provide their own transportation to/from the selected pick-up/drop-off locations. The pick-up/drop off location(s) may not be the closest one to the participants’ homes; however, this system is necessary to ensure proper safety and supervision of athletes. Travel options will be selected by the Zone Representatives during the registration process. Note that some sports require athletes to travel on Games transportation - refer to the technical package for the respective sport (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games) for specific information. |
| I received my child's travel information but I want to change it, what do I do? | Travel arrangements are made based on the options selected by the Zone Representative during the registration process. Keeping in mind that teams must travel together, to ensure the safety and supervision of BC Games athletes during travel to and from the Games, a central departure and drop-off location would have been selected. This is what we call team travel and it ensures that every athlete is supervised by an accredited adult (head coach, assistant coach, or adult supervisor) from the time they board a bus/flight until the time they arrive at the destination and also ensures that the Zone teams travel on the same bus(es) or flight(s) and arrive at the destination at the same time.
Participants must provide their own transportation to/from the selected pick-up/drop-off locations. The pick-up/drop off location(s) may not be the closest one to the participants’ homes; however, this system is necessary to ensure proper safety and supervision of athletes. Note that some sports require athletes to travel on Games transportation - refer to the technical package for the respective sport (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games) for specific information. Changes to travel must be approved by the sport's Provincial Advisor and submitted to the BC Games Society by the Provincial Advisor. If you require changes to your child's travel, contact the head coach or Zone Representative to submit the request to the Provincial Advisor. Contact information for Zone Representatives is available on the technical packages (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games). |
| Where will my child be staying at the Games? | Your child will stay in accommodation sites with the zone coaches and other athletes in the zone/sport/Games. The local school district provides the use of its schools' classrooms to serve as Games accommodation.
The BC Games rules permit all athletes to stay in Games accommodation. Coaches are required to stay in Games accommodation to supervise their athletes. Refer to the BC Games General Rules (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games) and the sport-specific rules in the Technical Package (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games). All of the athletes for one sport or one sport's gender will stay in the same location. Males and females are in separate rooms and separate wings/areas. Generally all members of the same gender from a zone team will be in one classroom; large teams may be divided into two rooms and smaller teams may have others from a different zone with them. Zone coaches or adult supervisors will be in the accommodation site with their athletes and will act in a supervisory capacity. |
| How can I find out what accommodation site my child will be staying in? | For the protection of all Games participants, we do not make public which sport is staying in which accommodation site. Head Coaches are provided this information prior to the Games and Provincial Advisors will have this detail well in advance of the Games; it is their call when and if they will share this information. Your child will be provided with this information when they are accredited at the Games. We suggest that you arrange for your child to contact you once they have been accredited and provide this information to you or let you know when they see you at their sport venue. |
| How does my child qualify for the Games? | Qualification for the Games variesfrom sport-to-sport. Review the technical package for the respective sport (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games) for specific information. Also review BC Games General Rules for additional eligibility information (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games).
The age of athletes varies from sport to sport based on the sport's development framework. Coaches are expected to be 19 or older in order to act in a supervisory capacity with their athletes. Review the technical package for the respective sport (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games) for specific information. |
| When are qualifications held? | Qualifications for the Games are coordinated by the Provincial Sport Organization and managed by the organization or the Zone Representatives - refer to the technical package for the respective sport (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games) for contact information. |
| Can my child compete for a zone other than one we live in. | BC Games rules require athletes to compete for the zone where they make their permanent residence. Refer to BC Games General Rules for details (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games). |
| How do I sign my child up for the Games? | Registration for the Games is done through Zone Representatives for each sport or through the sport's respective Provincial Sport Organization. Refer to the technical package for the respective sport (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games) for contact information and contact the Provincial Advisor for your sport and/or your Zone Representative. |
| Can my child participate in more than one sport at a Games? | Athletes may only participate in one sport in the Games. Refer to BC Games General Rules for details (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games). |
| How do I know what zone we are in? | The province is divided into eight geographical zones. Refer to zone information to determine your zone.
Each sport is permitted to bring athltes from each zone. Review the technical package for the respective sport (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games) to confimr the number of athletes permitted from each zone. |
| How do I know who the coach is for my child's sport? | If you do not know who the coach is for your child's sport, contact the Zone Representative or the sport’s Provincial Advisor. Contact information is available on the technical package (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games). |
| What security is in place at the Games? | Sport venues are staffed by security volunteers during scheduled practice and competition times at all Games events.
Games accommodation sites are security-controlled 24-hours per day for the protection of Games participants. Participants must show their accreditation badge to accommodation volunteers every time they enter the accommodation site. Before curfew on each day every participant must have their badge scanned to confirm that they have checked. Only Games participants with proper accreditation are permitted in the accommodation sites. The curfew for all participants, including adults, is 11:00 pm; anyone violating curfew will be subject to disciplinary action. Coaches reside in the Games accommodation with their athletes and act in a supervisory capacity. See the role of coaches for more information. Each individual is responsible for all of their belongings at sport venues and in Games accommodation – they should only bring what is needed and plan to keep valuables with them. |
| I am dropping my child off at the Games and picking them afterwards, where do I go? | Drop-off at the Games Those who are making their own way to the Games (or being dropped off at) must arrive by the time designated by the Provincial Advisor for the sport. Athletes cannot access the accommodation site without their coach. If you are dropping your child off at the Games, confirm with the zone head coach when to arrive.Pick-up at the end of the Games At the conclusion of the Games it is best to pick-up your child's luggage before they leave their accommodation site on Sunday morning - discuss with your child's coach and also arrange a time for when/where you will pick-up your child after competition has concluded and before the buses for the sport begin departing. Coaches will have this information on the Bus & Meal Schedule. Details about pick-ups will be included in the Guide to the Games. |
| Can my child get graduation credits for participation in the Games? | The Ministry of Education and Child Care's External Credentials Program enables students to receive credit for some of their training participation that occurs outside of school. This may include athletes who are competing on provincial or national teams and BC Games participants. For more information on the program and for a list of sports that qualify for these credits, go to the Ministry of Education and Child Care website. Credit earned through the Ministry of Education's External Credentials Program must be obtained from the respective Provincial Sport Organization. |
| My child has an allergy or medical condition - whom do I inform of this? | If your child has an allergy or medical concern it is important that they complete and Medical/Allergy Form PRIOR to the Games. The form will be completed through the BC GAMES PARTICIPANT WEBSITE (information about access to the site will be mailed to participants about 3 weeks prior to the Games).
Completing the Medical/Allergy Form will ensure Food Services and Medical Services volunteers have the information they need to support your child at the Games. Even if your child does not have an allergy or medical condition ALL participants are required to complete the form PRIOR to the Games. The Medical/Allergy Form cannot be completed at the Games. |
| What if my child gets sick or injured during the Games? | Medical volunteers will be at each sport venue during the scheduled competition and practice times and at all Games events. These volunteers, in conjunction with the Games Medical physicians, are responsible for the treatment of all Games participants. Medical Services are available on a 24-hour basis during the Games. Medical volunteers are always the first and only responders to injuries. Medical problems or injuries will be dealt with on-site, if possible. If further attention is needed, transportation to the Games Medical Clinic will be provided. |
| Can I see my child at the Games? | Sport venues are open to the public and do not require tickets (all competitions are free of charge).
The Opening Ceremony on Thursday is also open to the public and free of charge - note; however, that seating may be limited and a ticketing process may be implemented - see the Games page closer to the Games (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games). Access to the participant special events, the food venue, Games transportation, accommodation sites, and Closing Celebration is limited to Games participants only - Games accreditation is required for access. |
| I am not able to attend the Games, how can I keep up with all of the action? |
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| Where can I get Games photos? | During the Games volunteers will be taking zone team photos, medal presentation photos, and general Games photos. Team photo opportunities are arranged for by your coaches upon arrival at the accreditation centre on Thursday. All photos will be available to download on the BC Games Flickr site. |
| If my child is finished competition can he/she leave? | It is expected that all Games participants will remain at the Games for the duration. Participants staying in Games accommodation must remain in accommodation until Sunday.
Anyone who removes themselves from Games accommodation prior to the completion of the Games will no longer be eligible to compete and may be subject to other disciplinary action. Participants who finish competition prior to the final day of the Games (Sunday) may remove themselves from Games accommodation, if permitted by their sport and approved by their Provincial Advisor who must sign the required release form. Any participant removing themself from BC Games accommodation is also removing themselves from competition and from BC Games transportation for their return trip. This means that they cannot continue to compete AND will need to make their own transportation arrangements for their trip home, at their own expense. Speak to the sport's Provincial Advisor for more information. Note that some sports require participants to remain at the Games, stay in Games accommodation, and travel to/from the Games on Games-provided transportation – refer to the technical packages for details (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games). |
| Why is there a registration fee? | Staging the BC Summer and BC Winter Games takes volunteer energy and financial support. As the recipient of the work and investment being made on behalf of the athletes, the BC Games Society appreciates the contribution of the Athlete Registration Fee used as part of the overall funding of the BC Games.
We believe that the $175 fee, which covers travel to/from the Games (if applicable), meals, travel at the Games, special events, and accommodation, is a fair and reasonable assessment for participation in the Games. To provide some perspective, we have conservatively calculated the cost per athlete at just under $600, not including competition fees, which can be as much as $250 per event. |
| Why is the fee for my child's sport more than your $175 registration fee? | Some sports may charge an additional fee for qualification events, training, and/or uniforms - review the technical package (BC Summer Games; BC Winter Games) for more details and contact the Zone Representative or Provincial Advisor. |
| Will Games merchandise be available? | Official Games merchandise will be available for each Games. Check out the Games pages for information about pre-Games and Games-time merchandise sales. Prior to the Games, merchandise will be available via an online store. During the Games merchandise sales locations will be available at various locations. Locations and hours of operation will be posted closer to the Games - (BC Winter Games; BC Summer Games). |
Capturing the Games
Volunteer photographers dedicate their time, equipment, and talent at each BC Winter and BC Summer Games to capture images from every sport. Check out our Flickr account to see more photos from past Games.
