Celebrating 100 Years of ICSD: A Century of Excellence in Deaf Sports

Athletes in the 100m race crossing the finish line at Stade de Preshing, Paris. Special thanks to Honorary President Isabelle Malaurie for collecting and archiving this photo. © Comité Eugène Rubens-Alcais

Programme for the first International Silent Games. Special thanks to Honorary President Isabelle Malaurie for collecting and archiving this photo. © Comité Eugène Rubens-Alcais

Today marks a historic milestone in the world of deaf sports—the 100th anniversary of the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (formerly called Le Comité International des Sports Silencieux). Exactly 100 years ago, on August 10, 1924, the history of international deaf sport began. The first Deaflympics, then known as the International Silent Games, took place at Pershing Stadium in Paris, France. This event marked the birth of a movement that has grown from 148 athletes to uniting more than 2,500 athletes from around the globe.

We proudly celebrate the Deaflympics as the second longest continuously organized multi-sport event, second only to the Olympics, and the first in international disability sport! This enduring legacy is a testament to the vision and determination of the pioneers who made it possible for deaf athletes to compete on an international stage every four years.

Over the past century, the ICSD has been at the forefront of this movement, tirelessly promoting and developing sports for deaf athletes. It has played a pivotal role in organizing the Deaflympics and advocating for the rights and recognition of deaf athletes worldwide.

As we honor this centennial celebration, we salute the pioneers who laid the foundation for deaf sports and express our deepest gratitude to the athletes, officials, volunteers, and supporters who have kept this spirit alive for 100 years. Together, we look forward to continuing this legacy and inspiring future generations of deaf athletes.

Happy 100th Anniversary, ICSD/CISS!