As we celebrate ISCA's 30th anniversary, I am filled with gratitude for the remarkable journey we have undertaken together. Today, ISCA has evolved into a global network of passionate individuals, communities and organisations working towards a common goal: to make physical activity and sport accessible to everyone. I am proud to reflect on the immense progress we have made towards this aim. 

The sports leaders present at ISCA’s founding meeting on 10 February 1995 had a clear vision. They believed, as we do today, that the grassroots sector is the most important area of sport. They recognised that grassroots sport and physical activity had the power to bring people together, break down barriers, and inspire individuals to lead healthier lives. However, this sector was often regarded as secondary to professional sport. One of their key aims was to redress this imbalance. 

It’s one thing to formally create an international organisation. But to create an operational, sustainable entity that impacts the grassroots sector and influences policymakers is a different task entirely. It took much persistence, optimism, risk-taking, networking and commitment to develop ISCA into what it is today – a powerful and passionate global advocate for grassroots sport and physical activity. 

Over the years, we have created a strong international platform that connects grassroots organisations with policymakers, experts, and advocates, shares best-practice knowledge, and, not least, helps implement practical projects that benefit both individuals and societies. These projects provide us with very concrete tools to focus on specific target groups or activities, and to operate within specific themes like inclusion, governance or health promotion. 

The benefits of ISCA’s initiatives cannot be overstated. Studies consistently show that people who are active have better mental health and lower rates of chronic diseases. Although it is difficult to demonstrate exact figures, the long-term cost savings for governments in health service provision far exceed the funding allocated to these projects. 

Of course, these benefits extend beyond physical health – sport and physical activity bring people together, help build strong social connections, and provide a sense of belonging. Through our work, we have seen communities transform as people gain confidence and pride in their ability to improve their own lives. 

As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to ISCA over the years – the volunteers, project managers, staff, committee members, and not least those who have participated in our projects and shared their benefits with others. We often say that "ISCA is the members, and the members are ISCA." That is absolutely true. ISCA would not exist without the devoted, engaged, and persistent individuals who have made our organisation what it is today. 

Watch this video capturing some of the moments from our 30 years journey of #MovingPeople: