Ft. Lauderdale seventh-grader donates sports gear to
help children in need through ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM.
The International Alliance for Youth Sports (IAYS) got off to a strong start in 2012 with a generous sports equipment donation to benefit ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. communities throughout the U.S. and worldwide.
Allison Silitsky, a seventh grader from Pine Crest School in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., collected the donation. Silitsky spent the last four months garnering various gear, including sports uniforms, soccer balls, volleyballs, basketballs, running shoes, sneakers and cleats to help underprivileged children living in marginalized communities.
Furthermore, she raised nearly $1,500 that is earmarked to ship her collected items to communities in which she soon will select once her efforts are complete. This enterprising youngster plans to continue her collection and fundraising and plans to schedule another drop off in the near future.
“Allison is a wonderful example of the amazing impact just one volunteer can have in the lives of youth we seek to support worldwide,” said Cindy Daub, director of international relations for IAYS, a division of the West Palm Beach, Fla.-based National Alliance for Youth Sports. “Her efforts have been tremendous and we hope that other motivated volunteers look to get involved in ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. as well!”
Other donations recently received and earmarked for specific ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. sponsored communities have been made from companies such as Long Island Athletic Supply located in Farmingdale, NY and from Soccer Clubs in Wellington, through the U.S. Soccer Foundation’s “Kick It Forward” campaign. A new wave of sponsored communities will be featured on IAYS’ website beginning March 1, 2012 so stay tuned on who these communities will be!
ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. is an IAYS initiative that unites volunteers like Silitsky throughout the U.S. with specific communities worldwide that are in great need of support so that they can see directly how their donations are changing lives in that particular region of the world. Now, by forging strategic partnerships in the field with organizations such as Children International and Peace Corps, communities are continuing to surface and request IAYS’support in order to jump-start youth sports initiatives in their efforts to better the lives of all youth through sport.
To learn how you can get involved visit www.iays.org or call (800) 688-KIDS (5437).
NAYS receives generous soccer gear collection from the
Wellington (Fla.) Soccer Club
The National Alliance for Youth Sports (IAYS) will be able to help more kids learn how to pass, dribble and head a soccer ball thanks to a donation received from the Wellington (Fla.) Soccer Club. The club collected 495 pieces of soccer gear for IAYS to use for its Global Gear Drive, an initiative to place sports equipment into the hands of children living in under-privileged communities around the world.
The club collected gear on behalf of the U.S. Soccer Foundation’s Passback Program as part of its 2011 Kick It Forward Campaign. Kick It Forward helps local groups collect soccer gear for organizations, like NAYS’ Global Gear Drive program, and give children throughout the world an opportunity to benefit from sports with the necessary equipment and resources.
“We are excited about how the donation from the Wellington Soccer Club will benefit the communities we work with worldwide,” said Cindy Daub, director of international relations for IAYS. “This is an ideal relationship to help us facilitate gear collection.”
The gear was dropped off at NAYS headquarters by Jorge Suarez who credited the Wellington Soccer Club for the tremendous job they did in collecting new/slightly used soccer gear for the organization.
The donation of soccer gear will be distributed to best meet the needs of the organizations and communities which IAYS selects and works with throughout the year.
The National Alliance for Youth Sports was established in 1981 to help promote positive youth sports experiences for youth throughout the U.S. and now, worldwide. Today, NAYS currently offers a variety of programs and services to help educate administrators, coaches, parents and officials while also assisting communities in need of further support throughout the U.S. and worldwide.
The U.S. Soccer Foundation is a recognized leader in sports-based youth development programs for children in underserved, urban communities. Since its founding in 1994, the organization has provided more than $55 million in funding to create and sustain innovative programs across all 50 states. Proven to deliver positive health and social outcomes, the Foundation’s affordable initiatives offer safe environments in which both boys and girls thrive. Headquartered in Washington, D.C. the U.S. Soccer Foundation is a 501 (c )(3) organization. Visit www.ussoccerfoundation.org to learn more.
To learn how you can get involved visit www.iays.org or call (800) 688-KIDS.
IAYS FOUNDER & PRESIDENT, FRED ENGH, TO BE FEATURED ON
GOLF CHANNEL’S GOLF CENTRAL PROGRAM NOV. 14
Fred Engh, Founder & President of the International Alliance for Youth Sports (IAYS), a department of the National Alliance for Youth Sports, Inc. (NAYS), and a long-time youth sports advocate, will be featured on Golf Channel’s Golf Central program on a Monday, November 14th at 6 and 11 p.m. EST.
The Golf Central piece will trace Engh’s incredible journey, which began by “breaking barriers” as the only Caucasian golfer on the golf team at the historically all-black Maryland State College in the early 1960s. Those experiences later culminated with his creation of NAYS, which has been advocating and promoting the power of sports for children since 1981. In 2003, Engh began furthering the organization’s efforts globally by creating IAYS, which helps implement youth sports programs in under-privileged communities worldwide that, due to a lack of resources and funding, are unable to do so otherwise.
The piece will also spotlight the Hook A Kid On Golf (HAKOG) program which was created under the direction of Engh in 1990. This program today is recognized as one of the nation’s most comprehensive junior golf development programs. Since its inception, HAKOG has introduced more than 75,000 youngsters to golf around the world who otherwise would never have had the opportunity to swing a club, as well as provide them with opportunities to continue playing in fun and innovative formats. Other milestones achieved by Engh include:
►He created the National Alliance for Youth Sports in 1981 to help volunteer coaches better understand their roles and responsibilities to children. Today, it is the most widely used volunteer coach training program in the world, having trained nearly 3 million coaches to date and now, has expanded its efforts to provide training to parents, administrators and officials.
►In 2003 he created the International Alliance for Youth Sports, which provides sports programs for children in under-developed regions of the world. Its Game On! Youth Sports program is in place in Ghana, Nigeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mexico, Trinidad & Tobago, Grenada and India, to name just a few countries. Through his efforts the International Alliance for Youth Sports has now partnered with the Peace Corps to help implement sports programs for children in other countries, too.
►He started the Global Gear Drive in 2004, which collects new and gently used sports equipment from recreation agencies throughout the U.S. that is then distributed to children in poverty-stricken and AIDS-ravaged regions of the world so that they too can benefit from sports participation.
His life has been devoted to making a difference for children – regardless of race – and this passion was ignited during some of the darkest times in American history. The Golf Channel’s Golf Central program is airing a special feature on Fred Engh on the 6 p.m. telecast on Monday, Nov. 14. The piece is also scheduled to air during the 11 p.m. Golf Central telecast on Nov. 14.
For more information on this exciting segment, or to make a donation to NAYS or its international efforts to advance youth sports programs for children worldwide, please contact the organization at 1-800-688-KIDS or NAYS’ Director of International Relations, Cindy Daub, at Cdaub@nays.org.
IAYS’ ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. initiative has prepared and shipped its first donation of sports equipment to help Sports4HOPE jump-start their youth sports efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)!
In 2010, Sports4HOPE team member Scott Brelsford contacted IAYS in great need of an organization in which could provide continued support to he and his fellow Sports4HOPE colleagues upon entrance into the Democratic Republic of Congo, and IAYS’ newest ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. initiative was the perfect fit.
In September 2011, three members of Sports4HOPE arrived in this region and have begun its first project in three communities in the Ituri region of Eastern DRC. These conflict-affected communities are Bogoro, Vilo and Kagaba. Before the most recent conflict began, these three communities would often participate in sporting events, however, virtually all recreational activities have come to an end as a result of the unresolved conflict and consequences of war. There are currently soccer fields in these three villages but they are severely damaged and in neglected condition due to the war and inactivity. It is Sports4HOPE’s goal, and now with the added support of the resources collected specifically for their organization through ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM., they will begin developing these fields and use soccer to educate youth on four principles of reconciliation which are peace, justice, truth and mercy.
Items recently shipped to Scott and his team to help their efforts in these villages included soccer balls, ball pumps, cleats, shin guards and soccer uniforms in addition to training supplies such as cones, whistles and tennis balls. Standard toiletries and personal necessities also requested on behalf of Sports4HOPE were supplied as well.
ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. is IAYS’ newest initiative that allows our dedicated volunteers and supporters to connect and provide direct assistance to a community in great need of further support. All sponsored communities adhere to a detailed application process so IAYS can address and best meet the needs requested by each community. Assisting a community is a wonderful way to show your support and IAYS welcomes all interested parties to join our mission by helping our organization collect equipment and funds in support of a ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. community throughout the 2011-2012 year and beyond!
For more information on ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. please visit www.iays.org, or contact the organization at 1-800-688-KIDS!
NAYS’ 7th Annual Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Golf Tournament
& Jam for Sam a HUGE SUCCESS!
On behalf of the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) and the Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Foundation (SWMF) we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to you and all those involved in helping make this year’s 7th annual golf tournament and Jam for Sam the best EVER! Thanks to your generous support we raised more than $55,000!
The foundation is proud to earmark all proceeds raised from this year’s event toward providing sports equipment to children in need through a program recognized as the Global Gear Drive, in addition to assisting a local organization, Worcester Youth & Family Counseling Services. In fact, the foundation just prepared and shipped its first donation of sports equipment since the event to a well-deserving baseball and softball organization located in Nigeria!
The foundation, created in memory of the beloved Sammy Wilkinson, is proud to take great strides by raising both awareness and funds which help to support children, families and communities who are in great need of further assistance. All those in attendance should feel proud knowing that by lending your support and being a part of this year ’s event you have played an instrumental role in helping us make a difference and we look forward toward continuing our success as we move ahead this 2011-2012 year.
Stay tuned for more updates and success stories throughout the year by visiting our website, www.sammyfoundation.org or by following us on Facebook and Twitter. Again, thank you for your ongoing support and we hope to see you back next year!!
“Changing the world, one ball at a time…”
Register today to attend the first-ever GAME ON! Academy
in November 2011
REGISTER TODAY!
In 2003, the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) took a major step in the field of sport and development expanding internationally in order to meet the great demand of youth sports leaders worldwide with sincere interest in enhancing current youth sports initiatives for children in their respective communities. It was this same year that the organization created its international division, the International Alliance For Youth Sports (IAYS).
Due to the lack of funding and access to resources such as sports equipment, many communities are unable to implement or sustain a quality sports program for their children. Consequently, this reality has led their youth to turn to negative lifestyle decisions such as violence, crime, drugs, and acquiring diseases such as HIV/AIDS. Although this problem is beginning to be addressed, for many of these unfortunate communities worldwide it is clear that we are a long way off from tackling these issues once and for all. It is the goal of IAYS to provide maximum education and support to ALL those looking to transform the lives of their youth through sport.
This year IAYS will host its first ever international track, the Game On! Youth Sports Academy, in conjunction with its annual Youth Sports Congress. Game On! Youth Sports is a program which was created to help educate and guide all those looking to enhance their knowledge on quality youth sports practices with the basic resources and training in order to truly advance their youth sports initiatives in their respective communities. Core topic areas to be discussed in this training will include the following:
- Why Sports? Introduction to the power of sports and Game On! principles
- Overview on IAYS’ International Standards for Youth Sports and Child Protection Recommendations
- Game On! Administration
- Game On! Coaching
- Introduction to Life Skills & Teachable Moments
- Monitoring and Evaluation
Those in attendance will not only be given the opportunity to obtain a wealth of knowledge about Game On!, but also connect and share ideas and best practices with other youth sports leaders and professionals in the field of sport and development.
The international workshop dates will be held on Tuesday, November 29th to Saturday, December 3rd. Space is limited so to register or to obtain more information, please visit the IAYS website at www.iays.org or contact the organization directly at 1-800-688-KIDS.
THE SAMMY WILKINSON MEMORIAL FOUNDATION IS PROUD TO RECOGNIZE THE TRICE GROUP, LLC AS TITLE SPONSOR FOR THE 7th STRAIGHT YEAR
The Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Foundation (SWMF), founded in 2004, has hosted their annual event in Ocean City, Maryland each summer to help raise funds for the Global Gear Drive, which provides underprivileged youth worldwide with quality youth sports gear to enhance their youth sports programs and initiatives. This year the Sammy Foundation will also be directing some of the funds raised to Worcester Youth and Family Services.
For the 7th straight year the Trice Group, LLC, which has played a tremendous part in helping the foundation generate funds at the annual event and throughout each year, has again committed to a title sponsorship for the event in support of the foundation’s efforts.
“I have been so pleased to help start and support The Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Foundation for 7 years. I am proud of the events we have all worked hard to produce. I know everyone has had a great time and donated to a great cause…”-Lee Trice, Principal-Trice Group, LLC
This year’s memorable event is scheduled to take place on Friday, July 29th and is again honored and excited to receive the Trice Group’s on going support. The event will kick off with its annual golf tournament held at Ocean City Golf Club and later ending the evening with the Jam for Sam at one of Ocean City’s most popular restaurants and nightclubs, Seacrets. The day is filled with fun activities both on and off the golf course while giving all those in attendance the opportunity to win great auction and raffle prizes, listen to great live music and the opportunity to give back to a truly great cause.
“Ocean City and the Trice Group have been instrumental supporters since the foundation’s inception and it is great to have them play such a tremendous part in the great work our foundation does each year.”- Fred Engh, NAYS President and CEO
The Trice Group, LLC, founded in 1987, is a dedicated team of professionals providing real estate property services of the highest caliber to the financial, government and public sectors. For more than decades, The Trice Group has established itself as a preeminent appraisal firm in the United States. They offer both Commercial and Residential Real Estate Valuation Services.
To register or attend the event this year, information can be found at www.sammyfoundation.org and/or by contacting Event Coordinator, Cindy Daub, directly at Cdaub@nays.org or via telephone at (561)-684-1141.
IAYS teams with Peace Corps volunteers in Guatemala to change young lives through sports
The International Alliance for Youth Sports (IAYS), as part of its ongoing efforts to change the lives of underprivileged children worldwide through sports, is working with Peace Corps volunteers stationed in Totonicapan, Guatemala.
Fred Engh, president of the IAYS, and Mario Melgar, the IAYS’ Latin American representative, visited Totonicapan recently to finalize plans that include providing a variety of sports equipment and sports programming to support the Peace Corps volunteers’ efforts to introduce the sport of volleyball to local Mayan children.
Keisha Herbert, one of many Peace Corps volunteers working in Totonicapan, understands the important function sports can have in a child’s life when they have opportunities to participate in positive environments. She is looking forward to the instrumental role she will have in assisting the IAYS’ efforts to change young lives there through effective sports programming.
“Sports are the students’ active outlet to achieving lively companionship, building teamwork skills and enhancing self-confidence,” Herbert said. “Playing sports are important to a community because the essence of it values support, responsibility, and joins kids and families together from various backgrounds.”
The IAYS, through its Game On! Youth Sports program, works with communities in need worldwide to establish quality sports programs for children and provide the equipment needed to participate in them. Game On! was created to address issues that hinder sports programming for children and give them the opportunity to participate in a variety of sports, and experience a healthier lifestyle, with less chances of choosing negative activities.
“Kids and community members are always eager to learn something new, even with a lack of equipment,” Herbert said. “Yet, if the community were given a chance to receive equipment to learn and practice new sports, then the equipment will be the key element toward improving the aforesaid components of friendship, teamwork and improved self-esteem.”
For more information visit www.iays.org.
7th Annual Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Golf
Tournament and Jam for Sam Benefit set for July 29th
Registration is now open for the Sammy Foundation’s 7th Annual Event in Ocean City, MD to help raise funds to provide communities worldwide with quality youth sports equipment!
The National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) will host its 7th annual Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Golf Tournament and Jam for Sam benefit on July 29 at the Ocean City Golf Club and Seacrets Bar and Grill!
All donations and funds raised directly support the Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Foundation (SWMF), a charitable effort established to honor a young man named Sammy Wilkinson who had a passion for sports and passed away in a tragic accident in 2003. The foundation aims to help enhance the youth sports experience for children worldwide by providing these communities with quality sports equipment.
The exciting day begins at the Ocean City Golf Club at 10 a.m. where participants will tee off for an exciting day of golf! “This tournament is truly unlike any other tournament in Ocean City throughout the year. It is simply unbelievable,” said Bob Wilkinson, Honorary Chairman of the SWMF. Following the golf tournament, at approximately 5 p.m., participants and supporters will gather at Seacrets Bar and Grill to enjoy a fun-filled evening at the “Jam for Sam.” The Jam is known for bringing hundreds of Ocean City friends, families and local residents together to celebrate and enjoy live entertainment, great food and drinks, a memorable video show, an exciting raffle drawing and the opportunity to win some great silent auction packages!
Registration for the tournament is officially open, but space is limited. Sponsorship opportunities are also available as well for those interested in this option.
The Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Foundation was created by the National Alliance for Youth Sports, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that provides a variety of programs and services to youth sports organizations worldwide.
Register online today or visit the sammyfoundation.org site for further information. Also, for specific requests or inquiries please contact Event Coordinator Cindy Daub directly at (561) 684-1141, or via email at cdaub@nays.org.
ExFreight Zeta Inc. assists Global Gear Drive in
changing children’s lives worldwide through the power of sports
ExFreight Zeta Inc., a turn-key logistics provider, is playing an instrumental role in helping the Global Gear Drive (GGD) distribute much-needed sports equipment to children in need worldwide to help provide them with a positive outlet in their lives.
GGD, a program of the International Alliance for Youth Sports (IAYS), collects new and used sports equipment that is donated from recreation agencies and individuals around the country. It then identifies regions of the world where children could most benefit from it and utilizes ExFreight’s vast network to get the equipment there.
Since partnering with IAYS, ExFreight has been providing significant discounts to parks and recreation departments, sports agencies, schools and individuals interested in shipping new and used sports equipment to IAYS headquarters for distribution worldwide.
“Playing organized hockey and baseball for more than 12 years had a huge impact on my life,” said Charles Marrale, managing director of ExFreight. “Not only did it help improve my health and introduce a healthy lifestyle of regular exercise from a young age, but it also helped develop many social skills that are necessary in today’s business world, those being learning how to work effectively with others as well as how to lead, unite and encourage a team to successfully complete a task.”
Besides providing major cost savings for parks and recreation agencies, ExFreight’s low shipping rates have allowed IAYS to send more shipments to a variety of countries – and impact more children worldwide.
“Personally, sports have had a great impact on my own life and I owe many thanks to sports participation for the man I have become,” said Clint Hargrove, special projects manager of ExFreight. “The people I’ve met through sports have led me to new experiences, new challenges and new opportunities. I have met some really great people through athletics, whether it is my own teammates or professional associates that share the bond of sports participation. Today, I still keep in touch with many of my former teammates; it is truly a camaraderie that will last a lifetime.”
“IAYS greatly values our relationship with ExFreight,” said Cindy Daub, director of International Relations for IAYS. “We are honored to be working with a company that not only can protect the security of our donations, but is dedicated to our mission as an organization.”
ExFreight was founded by a team of professionals with in-depth knowledge and proven expertise in the logistics industry. It strives to provide customers with seamless and cost-effective solutions for their transportation needs. As a turn-key logistics provider it uses the latest technology to bridge the markets of the world.
For more information visit www.exfreight.com.
PAIR OF OCEAN CITY STUDENTS RAISE MORE THAN $600
FOR SAMMY WILKINSON MEMORIAL FOUNDATION
Local teens partied for a purpose at Sweet Sixteen birthday celebration
OCEAN CITY, Md. – Dancing to pulsing beats and flashing lights, teens partied for a purpose at H2O, an under-21 dance club in Ocean City, Md. recently. The birthdays of Ali McLoota and Ashley Trice of Stephen Decatur High School are only a week apart from each other so the two decided to host a joint Sweet Sixteen celebration benefiting the Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Foundation (SWMF).
SWMF supports the International Alliance for Youth Sports’ (IAYS) efforts to improve the quality of life for children in under-served communities throughout the U.S. and worldwide through youth sports. IAYS is run by the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS), a nonprofit organization based in West Palm Beach, Fla.
McLoota and Trice are long-time supporters of SWMF and have played key roles in getting other people from their school involved as well. The teens raised $682, which they collected through donations from partygoers. More than 150 students from area schools, including Stephen Decatur High School, Parkside High School, Worcester Prep and Easton High School were in attendance.
“Ali’s and Ashley’s on-going volunteerism and fundraising efforts set a standard for both teens and adults to meet,” said Cindy Daub, director of the SWMF. “Their work enables the Sammy Foundation to continue helping children and communities around the globe through youth sports.”
The money McLoota and Trice raised will be earmarked for the Global Gear Drive, an IAYS program that helps collect and redistribute donated youth sports equipment to communities in need across the U.S. and worldwide.
Founded in 1981, NAYS is America’s leading advocate for positive, safe sports and activities for children. The non-profit 501(c)(3) organization is headquartered in West Palm Beach, Fla. More than 3,000 community-based youth sport programs across the country use NAYS programs and services for everyone involved in youth sports experiences, including professional administrators, volunteer administrators, volunteer coaches, officials, parents and young athletes.
The IAYS was created by NAYS in order to help build the value of sports and enhance the youth sports experience for children worldwide. Today, IAYS currently offers a variety of programs and services to communities in need of support with the goal of enhancing the overall health and well-being of all youth throughout the U.S. and worldwide.
For more information visit www.nays.org or www.iays.org.
Ocean City Elementary School GEARS UP and helps SPONSOR A COMMUNITY!
Thank you Ocean City Elementary!
Ocean City, Maryland has been one of the biggest supporters of Global Gear Drive and its charitable foundation, the Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Foundation, since its inception in 2004- and this year is no different!
On September 23rd, 2010, Ocean City Elementary stepped up yet again to collect equipment and raise funds for one of our communities in need of our support! Throughout each year, Global Gear Drive accepts applications for support from communities who are in need of our assistance and wish to improve their current youth sports programs or activities. This 2010 year, NAYS and its international division (IAYS) recently launched a new initiative called ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. which is designed to help build a team of people willing to provide their support by donating equipment and funds to help support our under-privileged communities throughout each year.
Tracy Drocella, one of Ocean City Elementary School’s organizing teachers for this collection, mentions, “[I] asked students to bring in their used (and new) gear and they were to wear their favorite team jersey to show their support. The teachers paid $2 (or more) to dress casually for the day. I have been told that this “casual day” is the teachers’ favorite, because it is such a worthy cause.” Ocean City Elementary School is one of the first groups to contribute to this new initiative by officially sponsoring a community by hosting a collecting several pieces of youth sports equipment and donations. All funds raised for our sponsored communities are earmarked towards helping to ship the donated equipment them.
Cindy Daub, Global Gear Drive Coordinator, mentions “Ocean City Elementary is a perfect example of how volunteers can really make a difference in the lives of the children in need by showing their generosity and support. It really makes our efforts that much more special and taking part in our ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. initiative will be truly a great experience for all those interested in becoming involved.”
Our organization extends its sincere thanks to Ocean City Elementary and all those wishing to get involved and share with us in our ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. effort and each of our international programs or services. For more information on this initiative or to learn more about how you too can get involved, please visit our GET INVOLVED SECTION on our IAYS (www.iays.org) or contact us directly at 1-800-688 KIDS.
MIKE DITKA to deliver keynote at Youth Sports Congress
Mike Ditka – Hall of Fame NFL coach and ESPN analyst – will be the keynote speaker at this year’s National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) Youth Sports Congress on Dec. 1-4 in San Diego, Calif., which is held in conjunction with the Athletic Business Conference & Expo.
Ditka will also be presenting the prestigious Excellence in Youth Sports Awards, sponsored by Athletic Business and NAYS, America’s leading advocate for positive and safe sports for kids.
The Congress – the preferred venue for all professionals involved in youth sports – is a three-day comprehensive educational training that covers cutting edge topics in the field of youth sports.
“Da Coach” or “Iron Mike” played for and coached the Chicago Bears for 17 seasons. He coached the Bears from 1982 to 1992, compiling a win-loss record of 112-68 during that time. He guided the Bears to six NFC Central Division titles, in addition to three NFC title games.
His ’85 Bears won the NFL crown in Super Bowl XX. The ’85 Bears are considered among the NFL’s “Best Ever Teams” going 18-1 that year.
Twice, Ditka was named the NFL’s Coach of the Year (’85 and ’88). From 1985-1988, he lead the Bears to 52 wins – the most ever by an NFL team in a four-year span in NFL history.
He left the Bears football organization in 1992. Ditka returned to coaching in the NFL as head coach for the New Orleans Saints from 1997 to 2000.
Today, Ditka also shares his drive and team-building skills with audiences across the country. In his presentations “ACE” – Attitude, Character and Enthusiasm, he shares the lessons learned in a life of commitment and attention to the fundamentals – resulting in victory.
He delivers a powerful presentation that highlights the key characteristics people need to achieve their personal and professional goals.
In addition to all the traditional benefits of being a Congress delegate, attendees will also have access to several of the great Athletic Business Conference events, including the keynote sessions, welcome reception and the Expo.
For more information click HERE; email yscongress@nays.org or call (800) 688-KIDS.
6th annual Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Golf
Tournament and Jam for Sam raises more than $40,000
Charitable events held at Ocean City Golf Club and Seacrets Bar and Grill raise
money for Global Gear Drive to benefit underprivileged children worldwide
The 6th annual Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Golf Tournament and Jam for Sam benefit raised more than $40,000, thanks to the Ocean City community’s generous outpouring of support.
Sammy Wilkinson was an Ocean City native and grandson of Fred Engh, founder and CEO of the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS), which conducted the events.
The proceeds benefit the Global Gear Drive, a NAYS program that collects new and used sports equipment and distributes it to underprivileged children around the world who don’t have opportunities to participate in sports.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to be involved in sports and reap all the wonderful benefits that accompany participation,” Engh said. “We’re proud that through this event we are able to impact young lives through the power of sports.”
The fun-filled day began at the Ocean City Golf Club, where 28 foursomes competed in a scramble tournament that was sponsored by the Trice Group, LTD. The team comprised of Mark Onclo, Susan Pitensakger, Tara Downes and PJ Cercena took home top honors while Chuck Mitchell, Jim Dougan, Craig Smith and Gary Waldych grabbed second place. Seventeen-year-old Ryan Fogel won the Closest to the Pin and Longest Drive contests.
Some of Ocean City’s finest bars and restaurants had a featured presence on the course, including Pepper’s Tavern, Harborside Bar and Grill and Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon. The Shark provided lunches for the foursomes; and Wawa and Miller Coors donated water, soft drinks and beer for the participants; and the Original Greene Turtle provided goody bags for all the golfers.
Following the golf tournament approximately 300 people attended the Jam for Sam at Seacrets Bar and Grill, which featured live entertainment from Full Circle and Opposite Directions, food and drinks, a video show, raffle prizes and silent auction.
“Once again the Ocean City community stepped up and their incredible support will make life-changing differences for so many children around the world,” said Cindy Daub, Sammy Event Coordinator.
Ocean City schools were presented plaques during the Jam for Sam in recognition of their ongoing support of the Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Foundation. These were Stephen Decatur High School, Stephen Decatur Middle School, Berlin Intermediate School and Most Blessed Sacrament School.
For more information on NAYS and the Global Gear Drive visit www.iays.org.
IAYS Building the True Value of Sports
The International Alliance for Youth Sports (IAYS) is driven by the belief that sports have great value in the physical, social and moral development of children. Today, IAYS is going strong and remains focused on helping all child-minded organizations and communities throughout the world understand that sports can play a major role in the overall development of our youth.
Research clearly states that sports have the ability to be the “outdoor classroom of life” for all children partaking in quality youth sports activities at school or in their community. IAYS and its programs and services were created to help communities worldwide improve the lifestyle decisions of their youth and keep them away from choosing negative behaviors leading to drugs, violence and diseases such as HIV/AIDS.
“Researchers found that compared with teens who spent much of their free time in front of the TV, those who were active often had higher self-esteem, better grades and were less prone to risky behavior like taking drugs, smoking, drinking or having sex,” states a New York Times Reuter’s Health Study. In addition to this study, youth sports advocate Lance Winslow agrees that, “If we can teach kids to do their best in sports, follow the rules, and build character, our society will be so much more ahead in the future.”
IAYS was created by the National Alliance For Youth Sports (NAYS), a 501 (c) 3 charitable organization dedicated toward improving youth sports experiences for ALL children throughout the U.S. Beginning in 2003, after assessing the needs of dozens of communities reaching out to NAYS annually requesting further guidance, IAYS began serving communities around the world.
The IAYS has helped communities throughout the U.S., Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa by providing them with better sports equipment and educational resources. Through its ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. initiative, the IAYS is expanding its outreach to enhance the youth sports programming in countless other communities in need around the world to create life-changing opportunities for thousands of underprivileged children.
Massachusetts teenager collects 650
pairs of shoes for Global Gear Drive
Students across the United States have been stepping forward to assist the Global Gear Drive in their efforts to provide sports equipment to children in need throughout the U.S. and around the world.
Lindsey Hagen, a senior at Scituate High School in Massachusetts, is the latest in an ever-growing list that also includes everyone from middle students in South Florida to high school and elementary school students in Maryland, among others.
The Global Gear Drive provides new and used sports equipment, shoes and apparel to children in need both around the world and across the U.S. It has put equipment in the hands of children in the war-torn region of Darfur; in many of the AIDS-ravaged countries in Africa, including Zambia, Rwanda and Kenya; in remote villages in India; in poverty-stricken areas of Mexico; and in communities in the U.S. affected by Hurricane Katrina.
Hagen came up with the idea of collecting gently worn shoes in her community after being inspired by watching the 2008 Summer Olympics and then she reached out to the Global Gear Drive. By working closely with the Global Gear Drive she has collected more than 650 pairs of shoes that have been sent to Zambia. “The idea of an athletic footwear drive came to me during the summer of 2008 while watching the track and field events of the Beijing Olympics,” Hagen said. “An avid runner myself, I was amazed at the performance of many of the athletes from Africa. They were winning a lot of the events and they had so much talent. As I continued to watch, a pervasive thought began to gnaw at me. It seemed so unjust to think that these terrific runners had to face so many challenges because of where they live. I thought to myself there must be something I can do to help create more opportunity for talented athletes such as these who face difficult odds.”
To publicize her initiative Hagen created large signs that were placed throughout the community. She also used e-blasts and contacted the local newspaper. Roughly twice a week Hagen made her rounds to collect the shoes that have been dropped off at collection boxes she set up at two post offices, the town library and a local elementary school. “As soon as Lindsey first contacted us you could tell right away that she was passionate about making a difference for children in need and was going to put everything she had into this,” said Cindy Daub, director of the Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Foundation, which operates under the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) and provides support for initiatives like the Global Gear Drive. “She rallied tremendous support from friends, family, her school and the community and they responded. Because of her efforts there are hundreds of children in Zambia that are participating in sports programs now while wearing shoes on their feet for the first time in their lives.”
The Global Gear Drive covers the shipping costs of the equipment to its headquarters in West Palm Beach, Fla., as well as when it distributes the gear internationally to children it identifies as most in need. To learn more about the Global Gear Drive, if you are in need of youth sports equipment, or wish to host an equipment drive/fundraiser in your community, call (800) 729-2057; or visit www.iays.org for more information.
Cal Ripken, Jr. supports international
Game On! Youth Sports program
Hall of Famer applauds efforts of International Alliance for Youth Sports
The International Alliance for Youth Sports (IAYS) announced today that it has gained the support of baseball legend Cal Ripken, Jr. for its Game On! Youth Sports program.
“All kids deserve the chance to play and experience all that sports has to offer,” said Ripken. “Under Fred Engh’s leadership Game On! has made great strides in bringing the opportunity of sports to kids around the world.”
Gaining Ripken’s support will further IAYS’ efforts that recently were significantly enhanced by partnering with Children International, a U.S.-based humanitarian organization which helps more than 335,000 poor children worldwide.
“Having Cal Ripken’s support with the efforts we are undertaking with Children International will allow us to showcase to the world that sports truly are the outdoor classroom of life,” said Fred Engh, founder and president of IAYS. “Sports, when they are done the right way, teach children so many valuable skills that they will carry with them for the rest of their life and no child anywhere in the world should ever be denied those opportunities.”
Ripken will provide advice and guidance to IAYS and Fred Engh.
“I know from the first time I met Cal that his ultimate goal has been to see children benefit from sports done the Ripken Way,” Engh said. “The goals and philosophies of Game On! mesh perfectly with Cal’s approach to teaching children sports.”
“When I first heard about Game On! several years ago I liked the concept very much. Now Fred has taken the concept and made it a reality,” said Ripken. “Many kids have benefited from the program and I hope many more will do so in the future.”
Game On! Youth Sports was created by the IAYS to address issues that hinder sports programming for children and to give them opportunities to participate in sports, and experience healthier lifestyles that involve fewer chances of taking part in negative activities. Game On! Youth Sports programs have been held throughout Africa, India, Central America and the Caribbean. The IAYS features regional offices in Zambia, Trinidad, Mexico and India.
One of the many unique aspects of Game On! is that besides teaching sports skills, encouraging participation and promoting positive competition in a fun atmosphere, it also integrates a variety of life skills into the sessions. Children learn the importance of staying in school, how to make sound decisions, resist peer pressure and resolve conflicts.
Game On! also encourages participation from parents, teachers, teens and volunteers wishing to coach teams and organize games. By providing volunteer training, IAYS teaches parents and volunteers interpersonal communication skills which improve their relationships with children in their community. Training also enables teens to co-captain many younger teams and serve as positive role models.
The program has mass appeal to children of all ages and races, as it has been embraced by youngsters living in AIDS-ravaged countries in Africa as well as remote villages in India, to name just a few areas where it has had a significant impact.
The Game On! Youth Sports philosophy rests on the notion that once children have developed basic sports skills they are equipped with the confidence and motivation necessary to participate in the many physical and social activities that life offers.
For more information visit www.iays.org or www.children.org.
Local Brownie troop supports West Palm Beach-based charity
Duffy’s Sports Grill hosts monthly fundraiser to collect sports
equipment for Global Gear Drive to assist children in need around the world!
Although the locally-based National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) is a neighborhood fixture in West Palm Beach, the non-profit organization is making big moves worldwide. Recently, it has been enlisting the help of some local businesses and youth organizations – and so far Duffy’s Sports Grill and Brownie Troop 515 of Palm Beach County are the first to step up to the plate.
With the help of various Palm Beach County-based youth organizations, Duffy’s Sports Grill is holding special fundraisers each month to raise money and awareness for NAYS’ charitable international program – the Global Gear Drive.
The Global Gear Drive is dedicated to providing new and gently used sports equipment to children around the world who wish to take part in sports activities but are currently unable to do so due to shortages of equipment and gear.
On the first Thursday of every month at the Duffy’s Sports Grill (Royal Palm Beach location) 10 percent of all checks are donated to the Global Gear Drive upon presentation of the corresponding coupon and/or upon request. Since the program emphasizes improving the quality of youth sports worldwide, each month a different youth group will lend their support and help promote the event. On March 5th, the Girl Scouts Brownie Troop 515 will be offering their support.
The girls of local Brownie Troop 515 will be promoting the Duffy’s event all week long at their schools and to their community while also attending the event at Duffy’s, where they will be distributing information on the Global Gear Drive effort and collecting sports equipment.
“I am thrilled to have our Duffy’s fundraising event represented by the Girl Scouts and Brownie Troop 515,” said Cindy Daub, director of the Global Gear Drive. “The girls are anxious to help out and that is really a great thing to see. Building upon the ‘youth helping youth’ mentality is so important for programs like the Global Gear Drive and I am grateful that Duffy’s gives us the means to reach the general public to get our message out.”
Duffy’s Sports Grill will be holding the Global Gear Drive fundraising event every Thursday from 5-9 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach location, located on Okeechobee and Jog Road.
For more information on the event, or to get involved with the Global Gear Drive, contact them at gear@iays.org!
City of Malibu (Calif.) collects sports equipment for
Global Gear Drive
Community collects more than 700 items to be sent to
underprivileged youth around the world!
The City of Malibu Parks and Recreation Department (Calif.) recently donated more than 700 items to the Global Gear Drive, the charitable sports equipment program of the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS).
With the help of Jimmy Loftus, a fourth grade student at Point Dume Elementary School, the City of Malibu collected new and gently used sports equipment for donation to less fortunate youth in the United States and around the world.
The Malibu Sports Gear Drive, which kicked off Nov. 26 of last year and ran through the end of January this year, collected 15 baseball helmets, 41 baseball bats, 64 baseballs, 22 soccer balls, 32 pairs of soccer cleats, 18 pairs of shin guards, 85 soccer uniforms – including soccer socks, 10 tennis racquets, 12 football helmets, 38 football jerseys and 26 basketballs, among other items.
“The City of Malibu’s efforts in collecting so much sports equipment is truly inspiring,” said Cindy Daub, director of the Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Fund, which oversees the Global Gear Drive. “Thousands of children will benefit from this generous donation.”
The Global Gear Drive is a program that was established by NAYS to put sports equipment in the hands of children living in developing regions around the world that wish to take part in quality sports activities but are unable to due to shortages of equipment and the lack of facilities in their countries. Recently, the Global Gear Drive has set its sights nationally by donating equipment to communities in need here in the U.S.
The Global Gear Drive is an easy process which individuals, sports leagues, schools, churches and communities can get involved in. Slightly used and new equipment is collected and then shipped around the world, where it gives children the chance to play sports that otherwise do not have many opportunities to do so.
Children International and International Alliance for Youth Sports partner to organize leagues for poor teens around the world!
It’s “Game On!” for Children International and the International Alliance For Youth Sports (IAYS) as they announce a partnership that brings organized sports leagues to poor children and teens around the world!For Children International, a U.S.-based humanitarian organization which helps more than 335,000 poor children, 135,000 of those being teens between ages 12-19, the partnership supports community development in poverty-stricken areas. IAYS teaches a program to volunteers called Game On! Youth Sports that encourages fun, participation and positive competition, while integrating life skills into its lessons.“Millions of children in the U.S. benefit physically and socially from playing sports, but for millions of children around the world this simply isn’t the case,” said IAYS Founder Fred Engh. “Children International, working hand in hand with IAYS, is bringing organized sports to children throughout their agencies worldwide to show the world that sports aren’t simply throwing or kicking a ball, but more so, the opportunity to teach life skills that can enhance the lives of children everywhere.”Game On! has been widely popular around the world since its inception. Highly successful programs have been held throughout Africa, India, Central America and the Caribbean, which have impacted thousands of children.After launching a children’s soccer league in Mexico and with new leagues in Colombia expected by early 2010, Game On! Youth Sports encourages participation from parents, teachers, teens and volunteers wishing to coach teams and organize games. By providing volunteer training, IAYS teaches parents and volunteers interpersonal communication skills which improve their relationships with children in their community. Training also enables teens to co-captain many younger teams. The sense of pride parents and volunteers receive from overseeing teams and leagues often provides them with self-esteem and better leadership tools.Game On! Youth Sports appeals to populations of underserved, impoverished teens who are at-risk of dropping out of school and taking part in risky behaviors, such as gangs, early pregnancy, drug abuse or crime. Through the program, teens are encouraged to participate in leagues where they learn skills like making a life plan, decision-making, resisting peer pressure and conflict resolution, motivating them to stay in school.Children International’s President and CEO Jim Cook said, “Children International is excited to work with IAYS on real community development at the grassroots level. Using sports as a medium to teach parents and children new skills will improve their lives and help remove the stigma poverty places on their lives.”About International Alliance For Youth Sports:The International Alliance for Youth Sports (IAYS) was established in 2003 by National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) Founder Fred Engh, and both organizations share a headquarters in West Palm Beach, Florida, U.S.A. The IAYS has an Executive Staff and an International Advisory Board. The goal of IAYS is for all children throughout the world to have the opportunity to gain the benefits of sports. The IAYS addresses issues that hinder youth sport participation throughout the world, including lack of trained volunteers, lack of programming, nonexistent facilities and poor equipment. For more information visit www.iays.orgAbout Children International:Established in 1936, Children International is a nonprofit organization with its headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri. Children International’s programs benefit more than 325,000 sponsored children and their families in 11 countries around the world including Chile, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Mexico, the Philippines, the United States and Zambia,. For more information about Children International, visit www.children.org.
City of Malibu (Calif.) collects sports equipment for
Global Gear Drive
Community collects more than 700 items to be sent to underprivileged youth around the world!
The City of Malibu Parks and Recreation Department (Calif.) recently donated more than 700 items to the Global Gear Drive, the charitable sports equipment program of the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS).
With the help of Jimmy Loftus, a fourth grade student at Point Dume Elementary School, the City of Malibu collected new and gently used sports equipment for donation to less fortunate youth in the United States and around the world.
The Malibu Sports Gear Drive, which kicked off Nov. 26 of last year and ran through the end of January this year, collected 15 baseball helmets, 41 baseball bats, 64 baseballs, 22 soccer balls, 32 pairs of soccer cleats, 18 pairs of shin guards, 85 soccer uniforms – including soccer socks, 10 tennis racquets, 12 football helmets, 38 football jerseys and 26 basketballs, among other items.
“The City of Malibu’s efforts in collecting so much sports equipment is truly inspiring,” said Cindy Daub, director of the Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Fund, which oversees the Global Gear Drive. “Thousands of children will benefit from this generous donation.”
The Global Gear Drive is a program that was established by NAYS to put sports equipment in the hands of children living in developing regions around the world that wish to take part in quality sports activities but are unable to due to shortages of equipment and the lack of facilities in their countries. Recently, the Global Gear Drive has set its sights nationally by donating equipment to communities in need here in the U.S.
The Global Gear Drive is an easy process which individuals, sports leagues, schools, churches and communities can get involved in. Slightly used and new equipment is collected and then shipped around the world, where it gives children the chance to play sports that otherwise don’t have many opportunities to do so.
MIT students run basketball tournament to raise funds for
Game On! Youth Sports
The Pi Lambda Phi fraternity and the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority conducted a three-on-three basketball tournament on campus that raised $1,000 for the IAYS’ Game On! Youth Sports program.“We decided that we wanted this tournament to promote the sport of basketball both within and outside of the MIT community,” said Yansui Wang, a member of the Pi Lamba Phi fraternity who spearheaded the efforts. “When we were searching for a charity sponsor and came across IAYS and Game On! Youth Sports, we realized immediately that this program was a perfect fit for our cause.”Game On! Youth Sports provides countries with sports programming for children at the school, after-school and community levels. It gives children the ability to develop sports skills while learning how to make healthy lifestyle decisions and avoid the negative behaviors that lead to crime, violence, drug abuse, obesity and diseases such as HIV and AIDS.The first-ever Tech Tip-Off tournament featured 15 teams, which were asked to donate a minimum of $60 to participate. They also generated additional funds through the sale of Gatorade and T-shirts. Tian He, one of the organizers, also made a generous donation of $250. The group benefited from funding from the MIT Large Events Fund that covered most of the cost of renting the gym and supplying volunteer T-shirts. The tournament also featured a skills and three-point shooting competition. Joining Wang on the tournament organizing committee were Vijay Umapathy of Pi Lambda Phi and Anne Liu of Kappa Alpha Theta, as well as Kevin Sung and Ken Endo. A total of 30 members of Pi Lamba Phi assisted with the event. “We had a lot of fun running this tournament,” Wang said. “Thanks to our basketball savvy volunteers and organizers, the event ran smoothly and we received a lot of positive feedback from the players.”Based on the tournament’s success – both in terms of the quality of the event and the amount of money raised for Game On! Youth Sports – Wang and his fraternity are looking forward to conducting another tournament next year.“I will continue to organize this event,” Wang said. “I hope to make the Tech Tip-Off into a bigger and better annual tradition at MIT. I have plans to raise additional money through corporate sponsors in the future.”
The foundation is proud to earmark all proceeds raised from this year’s event toward providing sports equipment to children in need through a program recognized as the Global Gear Drive, in addition to assisting a local organization, Worcester Youth & Family Counseling Services. In fact, the foundation just prepared and shipped its first donation of sports equipment since the event to a well-deserving baseball and softball organization located in Nigeria!
In 2003, the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) took a major step in the field of sport and development expanding internationally in order to meet the great demand of youth sports leaders worldwide with sincere interest in enhancing current youth sports initiatives for children in their respective communities. It was this same year that the organization created its international division, the International Alliance For Youth Sports (IAYS). 
Thank you Ocean City Elementary!
Ocean City, Maryland has been one of the biggest supporters of Global Gear Drive and its charitable foundation, the Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Foundation, since its inception in 2004- and this year is no different!
On September 23rd, 2010, Ocean City Elementary stepped up yet again to collect equipment and raise funds for one of our communities in need of our support! Throughout each year, Global Gear Drive accepts applications for support from communities who are in need of our assistance and wish to improve their current youth sports programs or activities. This 2010 year, NAYS and its international division (IAYS) recently launched a new initiative called ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. which is designed to help build a team of people willing to provide their support by donating equipment and funds to help support our under-privileged communities throughout each year.
Tracy Drocella, one of Ocean City Elementary School’s organizing teachers for this collection, mentions, “[I] asked students to bring in their used (and new) gear and they were to wear their favorite team jersey to show their support. The teachers paid $2 (or more) to dress casually for the day. I have been told that this “casual day” is the teachers’ favorite, because it is such a worthy cause.” Ocean City Elementary School is one of the first groups to contribute to this new initiative by officially sponsoring a community by hosting a collecting several pieces of youth sports equipment and donations. All funds raised for our sponsored communities are earmarked towards helping to ship the donated equipment them.
Cindy Daub, Global Gear Drive Coordinator, mentions “Ocean City Elementary is a perfect example of how volunteers can really make a difference in the lives of the children in need by showing their generosity and support. It really makes our efforts that much more special and taking part in our ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. initiative will be truly a great experience for all those interested in becoming involved.”
Our organization extends its sincere thanks to Ocean City Elementary and all those wishing to get involved and share with us in our ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. effort and each of our international programs or services. For more information on this initiative or to learn more about how you too can get involved, please visit our GET INVOLVED SECTION on our IAYS (www.iays.org) or contact us directly at 1-800-688 KIDS.
MIKE DITKA to deliver keynote at Youth Sports Congress
Mike Ditka – Hall of Fame NFL coach and ESPN analyst – will be the keynote speaker at this year’s National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) Youth Sports Congress on Dec. 1-4 in San Diego, Calif., which is held in conjunction with the Athletic Business Conference & Expo.
Ditka will also be presenting the prestigious Excellence in Youth Sports Awards, sponsored by Athletic Business and NAYS, America’s leading advocate for positive and safe sports for kids.
The Congress – the preferred venue for all professionals involved in youth sports – is a three-day comprehensive educational training that covers cutting edge topics in the field of youth sports.
“Da Coach” or “Iron Mike” played for and coached the Chicago Bears for 17 seasons. He coached the Bears from 1982 to 1992, compiling a win-loss record of 112-68 during that time. He guided the Bears to six NFC Central Division titles, in addition to three NFC title games.
His ’85 Bears won the NFL crown in Super Bowl XX. The ’85 Bears are considered among the NFL’s “Best Ever Teams” going 18-1 that year.
Twice, Ditka was named the NFL’s Coach of the Year (’85 and ’88). From 1985-1988, he lead the Bears to 52 wins – the most ever by an NFL team in a four-year span in NFL history.
He left the Bears football organization in 1992. Ditka returned to coaching in the NFL as head coach for the New Orleans Saints from 1997 to 2000.
Today, Ditka also shares his drive and team-building skills with audiences across the country. In his presentations “ACE” – Attitude, Character and Enthusiasm, he shares the lessons learned in a life of commitment and attention to the fundamentals – resulting in victory.
He delivers a powerful presentation that highlights the key characteristics people need to achieve their personal and professional goals.
In addition to all the traditional benefits of being a Congress delegate, attendees will also have access to several of the great Athletic Business Conference events, including the keynote sessions, welcome reception and the Expo.
For more information click HERE; email yscongress@nays.org or call (800) 688-KIDS.
6th annual Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Golf
Tournament and Jam for Sam raises more than $40,000
Charitable events held at Ocean City Golf Club and Seacrets Bar and Grill raise
money for Global Gear Drive to benefit underprivileged children worldwide
The 6th annual Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Golf Tournament and Jam for Sam benefit raised more than $40,000, thanks to the Ocean City community’s generous outpouring of support.
Sammy Wilkinson was an Ocean City native and grandson of Fred Engh, founder and CEO of the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS), which conducted the events.
The proceeds benefit the Global Gear Drive, a NAYS program that collects new and used sports equipment and distributes it to underprivileged children around the world who don’t have opportunities to participate in sports.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to be involved in sports and reap all the wonderful benefits that accompany participation,” Engh said. “We’re proud that through this event we are able to impact young lives through the power of sports.”
The fun-filled day began at the Ocean City Golf Club, where 28 foursomes competed in a scramble tournament that was sponsored by the Trice Group, LTD. The team comprised of Mark Onclo, Susan Pitensakger, Tara Downes and PJ Cercena took home top honors while Chuck Mitchell, Jim Dougan, Craig Smith and Gary Waldych grabbed second place. Seventeen-year-old Ryan Fogel won the Closest to the Pin and Longest Drive contests.
Some of Ocean City’s finest bars and restaurants had a featured presence on the course, including Pepper’s Tavern, Harborside Bar and Grill and Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon. The Shark provided lunches for the foursomes; and Wawa and Miller Coors donated water, soft drinks and beer for the participants; and the Original Greene Turtle provided goody bags for all the golfers.
Following the golf tournament approximately 300 people attended the Jam for Sam at Seacrets Bar and Grill, which featured live entertainment from Full Circle and Opposite Directions, food and drinks, a video show, raffle prizes and silent auction.
“Once again the Ocean City community stepped up and their incredible support will make life-changing differences for so many children around the world,” said Cindy Daub, Sammy Event Coordinator.
Ocean City schools were presented plaques during the Jam for Sam in recognition of their ongoing support of the Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Foundation. These were Stephen Decatur High School, Stephen Decatur Middle School, Berlin Intermediate School and Most Blessed Sacrament School.
For more information on NAYS and the Global Gear Drive visit www.iays.org.
IAYS Building the True Value of Sports
The International Alliance for Youth Sports (IAYS) is driven by the belief that sports have great value in the physical, social and moral development of children. Today, IAYS is going strong and remains focused on helping all child-minded organizations and communities throughout the world understand that sports can play a major role in the overall development of our youth.
Research clearly states that sports have the ability to be the “outdoor classroom of life” for all children partaking in quality youth sports activities at school or in their community. IAYS and its programs and services were created to help communities worldwide improve the lifestyle decisions of their youth and keep them away from choosing negative behaviors leading to drugs, violence and diseases such as HIV/AIDS.
“Researchers found that compared with teens who spent much of their free time in front of the TV, those who were active often had higher self-esteem, better grades and were less prone to risky behavior like taking drugs, smoking, drinking or having sex,” states a New York Times Reuter’s Health Study. In addition to this study, youth sports advocate Lance Winslow agrees that, “If we can teach kids to do their best in sports, follow the rules, and build character, our society will be so much more ahead in the future.”
IAYS was created by the National Alliance For Youth Sports (NAYS), a 501 (c) 3 charitable organization dedicated toward improving youth sports experiences for ALL children throughout the U.S. Beginning in 2003, after assessing the needs of dozens of communities reaching out to NAYS annually requesting further guidance, IAYS began serving communities around the world.
The IAYS has helped communities throughout the U.S., Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa by providing them with better sports equipment and educational resources. Through its ONE WORLD. ONE TEAM. initiative, the IAYS is expanding its outreach to enhance the youth sports programming in countless other communities in need around the world to create life-changing opportunities for thousands of underprivileged children.
Massachusetts teenager collects 650
pairs of shoes for Global Gear Drive
Students across the United States have been stepping forward to assist the Global Gear Drive in their efforts to provide sports equipment to children in need throughout the U.S. and around the world.
Lindsey Hagen, a senior at Scituate High School in Massachusetts, is the latest in an ever-growing list that also includes everyone from middle students in South Florida to high school and elementary school students in Maryland, among others.
The Global Gear Drive provides new and used sports equipment, shoes and apparel to children in need both around the world and across the U.S. It has put equipment in the hands of children in the war-torn region of Darfur; in many of the AIDS-ravaged countries in Africa, including Zambia, Rwanda and Kenya; in remote villages in India; in poverty-stricken areas of Mexico; and in communities in the U.S. affected by Hurricane Katrina.
Hagen came up with the idea of collecting gently worn shoes in her community after being inspired by watching the 2008 Summer Olympics and then she reached out to the Global Gear Drive. By working closely with the Global Gear Drive she has collected more than 650 pairs of shoes that have been sent to Zambia. “The idea of an athletic footwear drive came to me during the summer of 2008 while watching the track and field events of the Beijing Olympics,” Hagen said. “An avid runner myself, I was amazed at the performance of many of the athletes from Africa. They were winning a lot of the events and they had so much talent. As I continued to watch, a pervasive thought began to gnaw at me. It seemed so unjust to think that these terrific runners had to face so many challenges because of where they live. I thought to myself there must be something I can do to help create more opportunity for talented athletes such as these who face difficult odds.”
To publicize her initiative Hagen created large signs that were placed throughout the community. She also used e-blasts and contacted the local newspaper. Roughly twice a week Hagen made her rounds to collect the shoes that have been dropped off at collection boxes she set up at two post offices, the town library and a local elementary school. “As soon as Lindsey first contacted us you could tell right away that she was passionate about making a difference for children in need and was going to put everything she had into this,” said Cindy Daub, director of the Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Foundation, which operates under the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) and provides support for initiatives like the Global Gear Drive. “She rallied tremendous support from friends, family, her school and the community and they responded. Because of her efforts there are hundreds of children in Zambia that are participating in sports programs now while wearing shoes on their feet for the first time in their lives.”
The Global Gear Drive covers the shipping costs of the equipment to its headquarters in West Palm Beach, Fla., as well as when it distributes the gear internationally to children it identifies as most in need. To learn more about the Global Gear Drive, if you are in need of youth sports equipment, or wish to host an equipment drive/fundraiser in your community, call (800) 729-2057; or visit www.iays.org for more information.
Cal Ripken, Jr. supports international
Game On! Youth Sports program
Hall of Famer applauds efforts of International Alliance for Youth Sports
The International Alliance for Youth Sports (IAYS) announced today that it has gained the support of baseball legend Cal Ripken, Jr. for its Game On! Youth Sports program.
“All kids deserve the chance to play and experience all that sports has to offer,” said Ripken. “Under Fred Engh’s leadership Game On! has made great strides in bringing the opportunity of sports to kids around the world.”
Gaining Ripken’s support will further IAYS’ efforts that recently were significantly enhanced by partnering with Children International, a U.S.-based humanitarian organization which helps more than 335,000 poor children worldwide.
“Having Cal Ripken’s support with the efforts we are undertaking with Children International will allow us to showcase to the world that sports truly are the outdoor classroom of life,” said Fred Engh, founder and president of IAYS. “Sports, when they are done the right way, teach children so many valuable skills that they will carry with them for the rest of their life and no child anywhere in the world should ever be denied those opportunities.”
Ripken will provide advice and guidance to IAYS and Fred Engh.
“I know from the first time I met Cal that his ultimate goal has been to see children benefit from sports done the Ripken Way,” Engh said. “The goals and philosophies of Game On! mesh perfectly with Cal’s approach to teaching children sports.”
“When I first heard about Game On! several years ago I liked the concept very much. Now Fred has taken the concept and made it a reality,” said Ripken. “Many kids have benefited from the program and I hope many more will do so in the future.”
Game On! Youth Sports was created by the IAYS to address issues that hinder sports programming for children and to give them opportunities to participate in sports, and experience healthier lifestyles that involve fewer chances of taking part in negative activities. Game On! Youth Sports programs have been held throughout Africa, India, Central America and the Caribbean. The IAYS features regional offices in Zambia, Trinidad, Mexico and India.
One of the many unique aspects of Game On! is that besides teaching sports skills, encouraging participation and promoting positive competition in a fun atmosphere, it also integrates a variety of life skills into the sessions. Children learn the importance of staying in school, how to make sound decisions, resist peer pressure and resolve conflicts.
Game On! also encourages participation from parents, teachers, teens and volunteers wishing to coach teams and organize games. By providing volunteer training, IAYS teaches parents and volunteers interpersonal communication skills which improve their relationships with children in their community. Training also enables teens to co-captain many younger teams and serve as positive role models.
The program has mass appeal to children of all ages and races, as it has been embraced by youngsters living in AIDS-ravaged countries in Africa as well as remote villages in India, to name just a few areas where it has had a significant impact.
The Game On! Youth Sports philosophy rests on the notion that once children have developed basic sports skills they are equipped with the confidence and motivation necessary to participate in the many physical and social activities that life offers.
For more information visit www.iays.org or www.children.org.
Local Brownie troop supports West Palm Beach-based charity
Duffy’s Sports Grill hosts monthly fundraiser to collect sports
equipment for Global Gear Drive to assist children in need around the world!
Although the locally-based National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) is a neighborhood fixture in West Palm Beach, the non-profit organization is making big moves worldwide. Recently, it has been enlisting the help of some local businesses and youth organizations – and so far Duffy’s Sports Grill and Brownie Troop 515 of Palm Beach County are the first to step up to the plate.
With the help of various Palm Beach County-based youth organizations, Duffy’s Sports Grill is holding special fundraisers each month to raise money and awareness for NAYS’ charitable international program – the Global Gear Drive.
The Global Gear Drive is dedicated to providing new and gently used sports equipment to children around the world who wish to take part in sports activities but are currently unable to do so due to shortages of equipment and gear.
On the first Thursday of every month at the Duffy’s Sports Grill (Royal Palm Beach location) 10 percent of all checks are donated to the Global Gear Drive upon presentation of the corresponding coupon and/or upon request. Since the program emphasizes improving the quality of youth sports worldwide, each month a different youth group will lend their support and help promote the event. On March 5th, the Girl Scouts Brownie Troop 515 will be offering their support.
The girls of local Brownie Troop 515 will be promoting the Duffy’s event all week long at their schools and to their community while also attending the event at Duffy’s, where they will be distributing information on the Global Gear Drive effort and collecting sports equipment.
“I am thrilled to have our Duffy’s fundraising event represented by the Girl Scouts and Brownie Troop 515,” said Cindy Daub, director of the Global Gear Drive. “The girls are anxious to help out and that is really a great thing to see. Building upon the ‘youth helping youth’ mentality is so important for programs like the Global Gear Drive and I am grateful that Duffy’s gives us the means to reach the general public to get our message out.”
Duffy’s Sports Grill will be holding the Global Gear Drive fundraising event every Thursday from 5-9 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach location, located on Okeechobee and Jog Road.
For more information on the event, or to get involved with the Global Gear Drive, contact them at gear@iays.org!
City of Malibu (Calif.) collects sports equipment for
Global Gear Drive
Community collects more than 700 items to be sent to
underprivileged youth around the world!
The City of Malibu Parks and Recreation Department (Calif.) recently donated more than 700 items to the Global Gear Drive, the charitable sports equipment program of the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS).
With the help of Jimmy Loftus, a fourth grade student at Point Dume Elementary School, the City of Malibu collected new and gently used sports equipment for donation to less fortunate youth in the United States and around the world.
The Malibu Sports Gear Drive, which kicked off Nov. 26 of last year and ran through the end of January this year, collected 15 baseball helmets, 41 baseball bats, 64 baseballs, 22 soccer balls, 32 pairs of soccer cleats, 18 pairs of shin guards, 85 soccer uniforms – including soccer socks, 10 tennis racquets, 12 football helmets, 38 football jerseys and 26 basketballs, among other items.
“The City of Malibu’s efforts in collecting so much sports equipment is truly inspiring,” said Cindy Daub, director of the Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Fund, which oversees the Global Gear Drive. “Thousands of children will benefit from this generous donation.”
The Global Gear Drive is a program that was established by NAYS to put sports equipment in the hands of children living in developing regions around the world that wish to take part in quality sports activities but are unable to due to shortages of equipment and the lack of facilities in their countries. Recently, the Global Gear Drive has set its sights nationally by donating equipment to communities in need here in the U.S.
The Global Gear Drive is an easy process which individuals, sports leagues, schools, churches and communities can get involved in. Slightly used and new equipment is collected and then shipped around the world, where it gives children the chance to play sports that otherwise do not have many opportunities to do so.
Children International and International Alliance for Youth Sports partner to organize leagues for poor teens around the world!
|
It’s “Game On!” for Children International and the International Alliance For Youth Sports (IAYS) as they announce a partnership that brings organized sports leagues to poor children and teens around the world!For Children International, a U.S.-based humanitarian organization which helps more than 335,000 poor children, 135,000 of those being teens between ages 12-19, the partnership supports community development in poverty-stricken areas. IAYS teaches a program to volunteers called Game On! Youth Sports that encourages fun, participation and positive competition, while integrating life skills into its lessons.“Millions of children in the U.S. benefit physically and socially from playing sports, but for millions of children around the world this simply isn’t the case,” said IAYS Founder Fred Engh. “Children International, working hand in hand with IAYS, is bringing organized sports to children throughout their agencies worldwide to show the world that sports aren’t simply throwing or kicking a ball, but more so, the opportunity to teach life skills that can enhance the lives of children everywhere.”Game On! has been widely popular around the world since its inception. Highly successful programs have been held throughout Africa, India, Central America and the Caribbean, which have impacted thousands of children.After launching a children’s soccer league in Mexico and with new leagues in Colombia expected by early 2010, Game On! Youth Sports encourages participation from parents, teachers, teens and volunteers wishing to coach teams and organize games. By providing volunteer training, IAYS teaches parents and volunteers interpersonal communication skills which improve their relationships with children in their community. Training also enables teens to co-captain many younger teams. The sense of pride parents and volunteers receive from overseeing teams and leagues often provides them with self-esteem and better leadership tools.Game On! Youth Sports appeals to populations of underserved, impoverished teens who are at-risk of dropping out of school and taking part in risky behaviors, such as gangs, early pregnancy, drug abuse or crime. Through the program, teens are encouraged to participate in leagues where they learn skills like making a life plan, decision-making, resisting peer pressure and conflict resolution, motivating them to stay in school.Children International’s President and CEO Jim Cook said, “Children International is excited to work with IAYS on real community development at the grassroots level. Using sports as a medium to teach parents and children new skills will improve their lives and help remove the stigma poverty places on their lives.”About International Alliance For Youth Sports:The International Alliance for Youth Sports (IAYS) was established in 2003 by National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) Founder Fred Engh, and both organizations share a headquarters in West Palm Beach, Florida, U.S.A. The IAYS has an Executive Staff and an International Advisory Board. The goal of IAYS is for all children throughout the world to have the opportunity to gain the benefits of sports. The IAYS addresses issues that hinder youth sport participation throughout the world, including lack of trained volunteers, lack of programming, nonexistent facilities and poor equipment. For more information visit www.iays.orgAbout Children International:Established in 1936, Children International is a nonprofit organization with its headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri. Children International’s programs benefit more than 325,000 sponsored children and their families in 11 countries around the world including Chile, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Mexico, the Philippines, the United States and Zambia,. For more information about Children International, visit www.children.org.
City of Malibu (Calif.) collects sports equipment forGlobal Gear DriveCommunity collects more than 700 items to be sent to underprivileged youth around the world!The City of Malibu Parks and Recreation Department (Calif.) recently donated more than 700 items to the Global Gear Drive, the charitable sports equipment program of the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS). With the help of Jimmy Loftus, a fourth grade student at Point Dume Elementary School, the City of Malibu collected new and gently used sports equipment for donation to less fortunate youth in the United States and around the world. The Malibu Sports Gear Drive, which kicked off Nov. 26 of last year and ran through the end of January this year, collected 15 baseball helmets, 41 baseball bats, 64 baseballs, 22 soccer balls, 32 pairs of soccer cleats, 18 pairs of shin guards, 85 soccer uniforms – including soccer socks, 10 tennis racquets, 12 football helmets, 38 football jerseys and 26 basketballs, among other items. “The City of Malibu’s efforts in collecting so much sports equipment is truly inspiring,” said Cindy Daub, director of the Sammy Wilkinson Memorial Fund, which oversees the Global Gear Drive. “Thousands of children will benefit from this generous donation.” The Global Gear Drive is a program that was established by NAYS to put sports equipment in the hands of children living in developing regions around the world that wish to take part in quality sports activities but are unable to due to shortages of equipment and the lack of facilities in their countries. Recently, the Global Gear Drive has set its sights nationally by donating equipment to communities in need here in the U.S. The Global Gear Drive is an easy process which individuals, sports leagues, schools, churches and communities can get involved in. Slightly used and new equipment is collected and then shipped around the world, where it gives children the chance to play sports that otherwise don’t have many opportunities to do so. |
MIT students run basketball tournament to raise funds forGame On! Youth Sports |
| The Pi Lambda Phi fraternity and the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority conducted a three-on-three basketball tournament on campus that raised $1,000 for the IAYS’ Game On! Youth Sports program.“We decided that we wanted this tournament to promote the sport of basketball both within and outside of the MIT community,” said Yansui Wang, a member of the Pi Lamba Phi fraternity who spearheaded the efforts. “When we were searching for a charity sponsor and came across IAYS and Game On! Youth Sports, we realized immediately that this program was a perfect fit for our cause.”Game On! Youth Sports provides countries with sports programming for children at the school, after-school and community levels. It gives children the ability to develop sports skills while learning how to make healthy lifestyle decisions and avoid the negative behaviors that lead to crime, violence, drug abuse, obesity and diseases such as HIV and AIDS.The first-ever Tech Tip-Off tournament featured 15 teams, which were asked to donate a minimum of $60 to participate. They also generated additional funds through the sale of Gatorade and T-shirts. Tian He, one of the organizers, also made a generous donation of $250. The group benefited from funding from the MIT Large Events Fund that covered most of the cost of renting the gym and supplying volunteer T-shirts. The tournament also featured a skills and three-point shooting competition. Joining Wang on the tournament organizing committee were Vijay Umapathy of Pi Lambda Phi and Anne Liu of Kappa Alpha Theta, as well as Kevin Sung and Ken Endo. A total of 30 members of Pi Lamba Phi assisted with the event. “We had a lot of fun running this tournament,” Wang said. “Thanks to our basketball savvy volunteers and organizers, the event ran smoothly and we received a lot of positive feedback from the players.”Based on the tournament’s success – both in terms of the quality of the event and the amount of money raised for Game On! Youth Sports – Wang and his fraternity are looking forward to conducting another tournament next year.“I will continue to organize this event,” Wang said. “I hope to make the Tech Tip-Off into a bigger and better annual tradition at MIT. I have plans to raise additional money through corporate sponsors in the future.” |