GAME ON, SAN JOSE

Game On, San Jose is a citywide youth sports and community engagement program launched as part of the San José 2026 (SJ26) campaign. The program leverages the excitement of major global sporting events coming to the region to inspire local youth, promote equitable access to sport, and build transferable life skills through athlete mentorship, physical activity, and technology-driven engagement. Game On is a community program of the San Jose Sports Authority.

Through partnerships with schools, community organizations, professional sports teams, and the City of San José, Game On, San Jose creates meaningful, measurable experiences that connect students to sport, leadership, and community pride.

Vision

To inspire San José students and community members by fusing global sports moments with local athletes, mentors, and digital tools—driving access to fitness, leadership development, and long-term community engagement.

Program Goals

● Deliver 50 school and community activations by June 2026
● Reach 5,000 -10,0000 of San José youth and families across all districts
● Increase access to sports and mentorship for youth who may not otherwise have opportunities
● Connect youth to SJ26 events, local teams, and ongoing participation pathways
● Game On activations to take place at Boys & Girls Club & BAWSI sites

School & Physical Activity Programs

Hands-on, 60-minute sport clinics led by athletes and mentors, combining skill-building, movement, and “Gamechanger Moments”.

Gamechanger Moments

At the heart of the program are Gamechanger Moments—athlete- and mentor-led conversations that use sport as a tool to teach life skills. These moments may include:

● Personal stories of overcoming challenges
● Discussions on leadership, teamwork, resilience, and confidence
● Athlete Q&A sessions
● Reflection prompts connected to the Game On, San Jose digital platform

These moments are designed to leave a lasting impact, helping students see themselves as leaders in their schools and communities.

Key Partners

Game On, San Jose is made possible through collaboration with community and sports leaders who provide athletes, mentors, facilities, and direct access and opportunity to youth across San José. The program is delivered in partnership with organizations and teams committed to youth development, equity in sport, and long-term community impact—ensuring the SJ26 legacy reaches students across the city.