The Games are an International Olympic Committee-sanctioned event held every 12 months where children aged 12 to 15 years, from cities around the world, participate in a variety of sports.

The athletes – Caleb Taylor, Ali Field, Mel Richards, Indy Taylor, Catie Whitehead, Rose Zahrooni, Kyle Eriksson, Corey Harris, Finn McLoughlin, Lachlan Neal, Joseph Shaw, Matt Sokulsky, Ben Pane, Will O’Donnell, Callan Cridland, Jesse Schumaker, Zoe Harper and Sam Heaton – were announced and congratulated at the Upper Hunter Shire Council meeting on Monday, July 28.

Upper Hunter Shire mayor Michael Johnsen said participating in the event would be an inspiring and educational experience for the young team, meeting people from around the world and competing in a large sporting tournament.

“A future Olympian could be among the team, but the important thing is that all children are encouraged to play sport,” he said.

The Upper Hunter Shire Council team will participate in golf, swimming, football and athletics at the Games at Lake Macquarie from December 6 to 11.

Six coaches will accompany them.

About 1500 athletes from 30 countries are expected to attend the event being held for the first time in the Southern Hemisphere.

For more information, visit www.icg-lakemacquarie2014.com