Decathlon names ParkPlay Inaugural Charity of the Year

• Decathlon names ParkPlay its inaugural UK Charity of the Year, reinforcing commitment to help build happier, healthier communities through the life-changing power of play
• Exciting rewards program launched: Decathlon x ParkPlay Awards to incentivize community engagement and participation
• Decathlon products remain a staple at ParkPlay events nationwide, elevating participant enjoyment

In an exciting development for the world of community sports, Decathlon proudly announces ParkPlay as its inaugural Charity of the Year in the UK, strengthening Decathlon’s dedication to supporting ParkPlay’s vision of providing free, inclusive, and accessible community play events to hundreds of thousands of people nationwide..

Offering a unique opportunity for people to engage in two hours of free, inclusive, and accessible community play every Saturday morning in local parks or public spaces. To date, 63 ParkPlay events have launched across the UK, attracting over 7,500 unique  participants who benefit from sessions aimed at fostering happier and healthier communities.

Established just three years ago, ParkPlay has already showcased its positive impact on community well-being. Research conducted by Active Essex and independent research company State of Life demonstrating that regular ParkPlayparticipants report higher life satisfaction, increased levels of physical activity and wellbeing, enhanced neighbourhood trust, and decreased levels of loneliness.

Decathlon’s decision to unveil ParkPlay as its Charity of the Year is in perfect harmony with its global Brand Relaunch, and inaugural campaign entitled ‘Ready to Play?’ Promoting active living through the power of play and encouraging physical activity across the nation, regardless of ability level.

Starting April 1st, Decathlon customers will play a pivotal role in building a more active nation simply by purchasing goods. Donations from all UK store tills directly supporting ParkPlay events with funds to provide essential equipment, train further volunteers, and expand sessions to new communities.

Additionally, a newly announced Decathlon x ParkPlay Award programme will highlight outstanding ParkPlay leaders and participants who exemplify qualities such as vitality, responsibility, authenticity, and generosity. Recognized and rewarded with cards that can be spent in store.

A new Game of the Season initiative also aims to encourage people to engage in new and enjoyable physical activities, driven by products from Decathlon’s in-house brands, that include Kipsta and more.

Delphine Mazillier, Chief People Officer at Decathlon UK, said: “Our first UK Charity of the Year partnership with ParkPlay couldn’t have come at a more meaningful time for the business. Together, we are committed to creating exciting opportunities for communities across the UK to embrace the joy of physical activities. ParkPlay is an incredible platform for the entire family to get active whilst removing the barrier of cost and democratising the benefits of sport.”

Rick Jenner, CEO of ParkPlay, said: “We’re tremendously excited to be Decathlon’s first charity of the year, as we continue to deepen our partnership with our favourite sports retailer. The partnership is based in our joint belief in the importance of discovering the joy of play to leading a more active life. The support from Decathlon, their staff and customers will help us take the power of play to more communities, supporting people to be happier and healthier.