GSSE

The Games of the Small States of Europe

The Games of the Small States of Europe first took place in 1985 in San Marino, and are held every 2 years bringing together Athletes in various disciplines such as Athletics, Basketball, Judo, Shooting, Squash, Swimming, Table tennis, Tennis, Volleyball and Yachting. The 8 member nations include Andorra, Cyprus, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, San Marino and Malta.

These Games are important for the smaller member states as they provide an opportunity for athletes to come together to share their cultural experiences and establish common goals and strengthen links of friendship across boundaries, while at the same time competing in a good sports competition.

The Games are also a high public profile event with large followings, attracting attendees from all around including a large number of visitors from abroad. Events such as these are a blending of sport, culture, and education providing experiences not just for the athletes and their contingents but for the spectators as well.

Aims of the Games

1. to bring together, every two years, in a genuine and sporting contest, the athletes designated by the European National Committees (E.N.O.C.);
2. to back up the ties of peace and friendship between the sportsmen and the youth of these E.N.O.C.’s to promote understanding, cooperation and mutual help and to encourage consultation and exchanges of information and experience;
3. to promote the Olympic movement and its ideal in each member country through it’s N.O.C.