The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) partnered with the California Science Center and the Walter Family Foundation to create the “Game On! Science, Sports and Play” exhibition. It is set to open in the Science Center on May 15.
“Game On!” will show the science of a variety of sports and allow museum attendees a hands-on learning experience. This exhibition has been in the works since 2019, according to LADF CEO Nichol Whiteman.
“The LA84 Foundation and the California Science Center brought it to us as an opportunity to collaborate on a really significant 17,000 square foot exhibit,” Whiteman said. “We were intrigued by this idea of providing something that was scaled to serve millions throughout Los Angeles.”
Science Center attendees will be able to learn about the science of a myriad of sports, from baseball to swimming. With the help of technology, participants can work on their soccer kick and their swings in baseball. LADF remained heavily involved in the development of “Game On!” and wanted to ensure that it was designed in a way that made Angelinos feel seen.
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“I think we all share the belief that sports is transformational,” Whiteman said. “We also all really want to make sure that community was involved in the exhibit buildout and that we were actively part of the overall curriculum and design to make sure that it spoke to Los Angeles.”
Mentor athletes will help the participants with the activities virtually. “Game On!” will remain in the Science Center for the Los Angeles Olympics and Paralympics and possibly beyond.
“I am looking forward to kids experiencing the transformational power of sports through this unique exhibit and learning the science behind the games they love to play,” said Renata Simril, President and CEO of the LA84 Foundation.
Activities that relate to yoga, dance and rock climbing will also be featured in the exhibit. Attendees will also be exposed to lessons on multibody connections and nutrition.
“It really is an opportunity to do this comprehensive approach,” Whiteman said. “But also share here are careers in sports and to use it as a backdrop to talk about things that are not just being an athlete.”
While the science of sports is the main aspect of the “Game On!” exhibit, another focus is the general well-being of children.
With the Olympics and Paralympics coming in 2028, “Game On!” could possibly empower youth to strive for a spot on Team USA.
“We know that force has the power to inspire and educate and create opportunities for young people,” Whiteman said. “We want to make sure that that is connected to the Games and that we’re using the Games as a platform to be able to shine a light on such an important message.”
“Game On!” is a free exhibit at the Science Center. Groups of 15 or more must book a reservation by calling (213)744-2019.
