Get Active Inverness County: Summer Fun, Connection, and Community
October 24, 2025
during Mabou Ceilidh Days.
This summer, communities all over Inverness County felt the excitement of the municipality’s Get Active program. It wasn’t just about playing sports or getting exercise. It was about bringing people together, helping kids feel like they belong, and making fun memories for families.
The Get Active team spent the summer traveling around the county. They went from town to town, bringing games, equipment, and positive energy with them. Their goal was to make it easy for everyone to join in. They didn’t expect kids to bring gear or pay big fees. They just wanted everyone to feel welcome. Whether someone lived in the county their whole life, just moved, or was back for a summer visit, there was always a place for them.
from visiting coaches while immersing themselves in the Gaelic
language—blending sport and culture. The camp was spearheaded by Fèis Mhabu and supported by the Get Active team.
The team focused on removing barriers to recreation. Programming was free or extremely affordable, and Get Active supplied equipment so the kids just had to show up. It was about making sure no one missed out. This summer’s programs were bigger and more open to everyone than ever before. Along with favourites like beach volleyball, spike ball, and multi-sport days, they added some fun new options like Arts and Crafts Days, Science Days, and LEGO Clubs. These activities brought in kids who might not have been into sports before, and it was great to see everyone having fun in their own way.
There were also some exciting partnerships this year. One of the highlights was the Alba FA “Play Gàidhlig” Soccer Camp that came all the way from Scotland. It mixed soccer drills with learning Gaelic and was a huge hit. The team also worked with JaysCare and the local softball association to start “Girls at Bat,” a program that helps support girls in sport. Wave Volleyball also came on board to offer high-level coaching, which really helped build confidence and skills in young athletes.
On top of all that, Get Active supported a number of community events including Mabou Ceilidh, the Inverness Gathering, Chestico Days, Festival de l’Escaouette, the Margaree Highland Games, and Judique’s 250th anniversary. One of the biggest events of the summer was the Second Annual Gary MacInnis Memorial Beach Volleyball Tournament on July 23rd in Inverness. Last year, it brought out more than 100 people and teams of all ages. This year, it was even bigger. It was a day full of energy, community spirit, and friendly competition, all in memory of a coach who meant a lot to so many people.
Marisa MacLellan, Isla Gillies, Carly Freimanis, Carly Beaton, Violet MacDonald, Kateag Hawley. (Photos: contributed)
One of the best things about the Get Active program is how inclusive it is. If a kid showed up without a team, the staff would jump in and make sure they could still play. Parents even asked to join sometimes, just because the environment was fun and welcoming. In the end, this summer wasn’t just about staying active. It was about building a stronger community.
Every game, every craft, and every activity gave kids the chance to try something new and make new friends. All summer long, people came out, got involved, and helped create something really special. One game, one beach day, and one smiling kid at a time.
