The Generation Games are Back!

On Saturday, February 2, Salem State University and the City of Salem are set to host the third edition of the Generation Games at the O’Keefe Center at Salem State University.

The Generation Games are designed to provide a platform by which people from all generations and cultures can bond through different recreational events ranging from sports to games to music. These Games mark the first time in the world that the Generation Games have been held in one city over three consecutive years. Having originated in The Netherlands, Salem State University’s Recreation Management concentration has taken the lead in the development of the Generation Games as part of a three-way partnership between Salem State University, the City of Salem, and the Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences. Patricia O’Brien, t Superintendent of Salem’s Department of Park, Recreation, and Community Services, stated, “we really value the partnership that brings the Generation Games to the City of Salem as part of our efforts to continuously provide interactive and engaging programs to our citizens. This year’s Generation Games is really going to make people happy as there is something for everyone from seniors to toddlers. We are happy to act as a partner and look forward to seeing what changes year 3 brings to the Generation Games.”

The third edition of the Generation Games looks to build upon the success of the previous two editions in Salem. Dr. KC Bloom, Coordinator of Salem State University’s Recreation Management Concentration, stated, “We’ve really looked to grow this year’s games from what we have learned the last two years. We have dramatically expanded our programming to include everything from previous favorites such as Bubble Soccer, Blacklight Dodgeball, Cornhole, Ball Room Dance, and Human Foosball to new events such as Cheerleading and Dance Clinics, African Drumming, Pong, Wiffleball, Kickball, Flag Football, Toddler Time, Family Bingo, Scrabble, and Cribbage. We have a Soccer Clinic/Games being put on through our partnership with Salem Youth Soccer, as well as lacrosse, rugby, and field hockey clinics being put on by our Salem State Club Sports and our Rotterdam University interns. Additionally, the O’keefe swimming pool will be open as part of the event and will feature Water Aerobics, Free Swim, Cardboard Boat Races, and Swimming Relays & Games. Overall, it’s a diverse list of over 68 events so there is something for everyone.”

The Opening Ceremony for the Generation Games is set to begin at 10:00 am at the entrance to the Gassett Fitness Center in the O’keefe Center. It will feature short speeches from Mayor Kim Driscoll, Salem State University President John Keenan, and this year’s special honorees, Eric Reppucci (student), Leslie Boucher (alumni), and Dr. Jeanne Corcoran (faculty/administration). Additionally, the winners of the Generation Games Poster Competition will be announced and presented with a special award.

Food will be available for purchase. The Flying Saucer Pizza Company will be selling slices of pizza with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the Salem Generation Games from 11:00-6:00. Additional food and beverages will be available for purchase as well. Parking will be available at the O'Keefe Center and locations in the immediate area. While the event is free, registration is appreciated. Please visit https://www.salemgenerationgames.com to see a schedule of events and to register. The first 200 people to register will receive a free gift. More information is also available on the Salem Generation Games page on Facebook.