Empowering Youth Through Sports and Structure
The Compton Watts Summer Games is a youth-centered sports program designed to provide structure, routine, and meaningful team-building experiences for young people. Through organized athletic programming, participants develop discipline, accountability, and collaboration while gaining tangible physical and social skills that extend beyond the playing field. The program intentionally uplifts youth from all backgrounds, using sport as a vehicle for personal growth, confidence-building, and opportunity-supporting long-term development that can lead to lifelong fitness, leadership skills, and, for some participants, pathways toward competitive advancement and scholarship potential.
A Look Back at Our Journey
1965 – A Community Turning Point
Following the Watts Riots in 1965, many neighborhoods in the area were heavily damaged. The events highlighted the need for stronger community programs and positive opportunities for local youth.
1968 – Watts Summer Games Begin
In response, the Watts Summer Games were created in 1968 to bring young people together through organized sports and community participation. The games provided a positive outlet for youth while helping strengthen connections across the community.
Early 2000s – Games Come to a Pause
After many years of serving the community, the Watts Summer Games stopped operating in the early 2000s.
2017 – Games Revived
The Watts Summer Games were brought back in 2017, continuing the tradition of youth sports and community engagement.
2025 – Revival Once Again
After another pause, the Watts Summer Games were revived again in 2025, continuing the effort to provide opportunities for youth through athletics and community programs.
The Mission That Drives Us
Uniting youth through sports to build bridges, develop leaders, and reduce gang and gun violence while creating safe pathways for young people to thrive.