2026 has already delivered a list of captivating sporting moments. From the Men’s and Women’s editions of the Rugby Six Nation, Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup, and perhaps most notably the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, we’ve seen sport at its very best. These events remind us of the incredible feat’s we’re capable of, whilst uniting people across communities, counties and countries and giving us the space to switch of from the outside world and be engulfed in the achievements of others.
Whilst the opening months of the year have already given us plenty to talk about, the summer ahead promises even more. Over the coming months, the global sporting calendar comes alive once again. From the highly anticipated Men’s Football World Cup in the USA where we’ll eagerly wait to find out if it’s finally coming home, to the Commonwealth Games, Wimbledon, and the European Athletics Championships – all taking place right here in the UK, there is something for everyone to enjoy. These moments create a real sense of excitement, not just for the sport itself, but for the way they bring people together, whether that’s live in stadiums, from the comfort of our sofas in front of the TV at home, or over a pint or two in your local.
At Active Essex, summer has always been a key moment to celebrate physical activity. The longer days and brighter evenings naturally encourage people to get outside and try something new. In previous years, we have leaned into major sporting moments like the Olympic Games to shine a light on Essex born athletes, sharing their journeys and experiences. Through these conversations, we have hoped to inspire our audiences and give them a glimpse into the lives of elite athletes, while also strengthening relationships along the way.
This has included working closely with athletes like Lewis Richardson and Ellie Challis, who are now part of our Find Your Active: Move for your Mind campaign as Athlete Ambassadors. Their stories and ongoing commitment to helping create a healthier Greater Essex highlight how important it is to move more, not just for physical health, but for mental wellbeing too. Hearing directly from athletes about the role activity plays in their lives brings a powerful sense of relatability, even if their stage looks very different to ours.
On a personal level, this is something that really resonates with me. If you had told me at 11 years old, having just started secondary school and discovering a love for team sport, that one day I would be working with athletes competing on the world stage, I would never have believed you.
I was never top of my P.E sets or the first pick for teams, but I was lucky enough that I always enjoyed being involved. That enjoyment is what stayed with me. In my first year of secondary school, I picked up hockey, a sport that I still play 14 years later. It was not the most popular choice at the time, but thanks to the passion of a volunteer running sessions, I found something that stuck. It gave me a routine, introduced me to new people, and opened the door to opportunities like playing competitively against other schools and joining a local club. With the support of my family and teammates, it became a big part of my life, and looking back, it is clear how much it shaped not just my physical health, but my confidence and mindset too.
Personally, for me, this summer is one I’m really looking forward to. Alongside the global events on the calendar, there are some moments a bit closer to home that I’m excited about. From watching Essex play at the County Ground, to taking in the energy and atmosphere in London watching both England play and experiencing The Hundred. I’ll also be travelling to Belgium with friends to watch the Men’s and Women’s Hockey World Cups. These experiences bring sport to life in a different way, and they are the kind of moments that remind me why I’ve always enjoyed being involved in sport, both as a participant and a fan.
As part of the marketing and communications team at Active Essex, I see those same stories playing out in different ways every day. Sport and physical activity are not just about performance or competition. They are about how they make you feel. They can help build confidence, create connections and provide a positive outlet, especially during busy or challenging times.
That’s why a summer like this feels so important. With so much sport visible across our screens and in our local communities, there is a real opportunity to turn inspiration into action. Watching world class athletes can be the spark, but it’s the small, everyday moments that make the biggest difference. Whether it is getting out for a walk in the evening, trying a new activity, or revisiting something you used to enjoy, it all adds up.
For anyone unsure where to start, my advice would be simple. Use this summer as your chance to explore. Watch different sports, visit local clubs, and give things a go. Not everything will be the right fit straight away, and that’s completely fine and often the way. The important thing is to keep trying until something clicks.
Because in a summer full of sport, there is more than just entertainment on offer. There is an opportunity to feel better, move more, and perhaps discover something that stays with you for years to come. Find an activity that’s right for you through the Find Your Active ‘Activity Finder’: https://www.activeessex.org/activity-finder/
