Separated by a Border.
United by Sport.
Since 1958, the CANUSA Games have brought together athletes from Flint and Hamilton, Ontario in the longest-running international friendship competitions in North America.
Each year, hundreds of athletes from Genesee County represent Flint in an experience that goes beyond the game. Through competition, connection, and cultural exchange, they build friendships, gain confidence, and become part of something bigger than themselves.
In 2024, the CANUSA Games and the Greater Flint Olympian Games were inducted into the Greater Flint Area Sports Hall of Fame, honoring their impact on generations of athletes and families.
Led by Crim through Crim Sports, CANUSA represents the highest level of opportunity within our youth sports system, connecting local play to an international stage.
THE PATH TO CANUSA
Athletes qualify during the Greater Flint Olympian Games or through Crim Sports selection processes based on skill, effort, and sportsmanship.
Interested in representing Flint at the CANUSA Games?
Here’s how it works:
HALL OF FAME RECOGNITION
In 2024, the Greater Flint Olympian Games and CANUSA Games were inducted into the Greater Flint Area Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing more than six decades of community-rooted competition, international friendship, athletic excellence, and lasting impact on thousands of athletes from Genesee County and Hamilton.
What began in Flint with the Greater Flint Olympian Games laid the foundation for a unique international exchange that continues to bring two communities together through sport.
This honor reflects not only the legacy of the Games, but also the vision of the founders who created this opportunity, and the generations of staff, sport area coordinators, and volunteers who have built, sustained, and grown this tradition over time. Through their commitment, these Games have become a cornerstone of Flint’s sports tradition, creating opportunities, connections, and life-changing experiences for youth and families year after year.
Experience the Friendship
Athletes travel between Flint and Hamilton on alternating years to compete, connect, and build friendships that often last a lifetime.
From the Parade of Athletes to the CANUSA Oath and Torch Run, these traditions bring athletes together and set the tone for the Games. They represent unity, pride, and the shared spirit that makes CANUSA unique.
Athletes participate in sports that may include basketball, volleyball, baseball, soccer, swimming, track and field, and more.
Youth experience life across the border through hosting and home stay opportunities that create meaningful bonds between families.
WHAT ATHLETES GAIN
- International travel and cultural experiences
- Competitive play at a high level
- Deep and lasting friendships with athletes in Hamilton
- Mentorship from skilled coaches
- Lessons in leadership, responsibility, and positive representation
- Pride in representing Flint and Genesee County
MORE THAN
COMPETITION
Travel and Team-Building
Through Crim Sports, athletes prepare together through practices, group activities, and shared experiences that build strong team connections.
Family Engagement
Families play a vital role through hosting Hamiliton athletes, travel support, and community involvement.
Ambassadors for Flint
Athletes represent Flint and Genesee County on an international stage, carrying pride, responsibility, and community spirit with them.
GETTING INVOLVED
Athletes
& Parents
Take the next step, compete, and be part of something bigger as you represent Flint on an international stage.
Partner
& Sponsors
Be part of a tradition rooted in friendship, unity between two communities, and opportunity.
A FRIENDSHIP THAT LASTS A LIFETIME
The CANUSA Games are about more than competition. They bring people together, give athletes the opportunity to experience international travel, compete on a bigger stage, and build friendships and memories that last well beyond the games.
Through Crim, and powered by Crim Sports, this tradition continues to grow, connecting communities and opening doors for athletes on and off the field.
