As Birmingham and the West Midlands gears up to host the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, there has never been a better time to host your event in our region.
From playing the first game of lawn tennis to inventing the first practical bicycle, being innovators, creators, and hosts to some of the biggest, iconic sporting moments is something that the West Midlands is proud of!
Keep reading to discover some interesting fun facts about sport in the Midlands.
Did you know:
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Rugby in Warwickshire is known throughout the world as the birthplace of the game. It was in the market town in 1823, while playing football at his school, that William Webb Ellis picked up the ball and ran. This moment, which took place on The Close at Rugby School, is the origin of Rugby Union, Rugby League, and American Football. Today, you can visit the momentous spot and dedicated museum.
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Lawn tennis was invented and first played in Birmingham over 150 years ago. Major Harry Gem created the game with JBA Perera in a back garden in Ampton Road, Edgbaston. Today, the city hosts a crucial Wimbledon warm-up tournament at the Edgbaston Priory Club.
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In 1888, William McGregor of Aston Villa FC invited other clubs to play regularised games of football, the creation of the Football League.
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Villa Park, Aston Villa’s home since 1897, was the first English ground to stage international football in three different centuries.
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Villa Park has hosted more FA Cup semi-finals than any other club stadium.
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The Belfry’s Brabazon golf course has hosted more Ryder Cups than any other venue
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Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham’s oldest international sports venue, staged its first Test Match in 1902 when Australia were bowled out for 36 runs. Edgbaston is said to be the England cricket team’s favourite ground, famously hosting the thrilling two-run victory in the second Test of the famous 2005 Ashes series
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St. George’s Park in Burton-upon-Trent is home to England’s 28 national football teams
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Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter is still one of the leading players in the development of sporting trophies, including the Wimbledon men’s and ladies’ tennis trophies, the FA Cup, Lonsdale champion belts in Boxing, Premier League football medals and the 1948 Olympic torch
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Discover venues below or contact the team directly to discuss your next event.
Tel: +44 (0)121 202 5100 | Email: bcb.conferencesales@wmgrowth.com
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