It is Thursday June 22nd and I am leaving tonight for the University of Rhode Island to work as a swim coach at my first ever World Scholar Athlete Games. The concept of the World Scholar-Athlete Games is derived from the tradition of the modern Olympic Games, but seeks to†add a new dimension. Those Games grew out of the belief that international sport could be a driving force for understanding and friendship among world athletes and, indirectly, among nations. These Games uphold that tradition while simultaneously celebrating scholarship, athletics and cultural growth.

Conceived by the Institute for International Sport, the 1993, 1997 and 2001 Games were a tremendous success, proving that academics, athletics and culture can be a uniting force. During the past three Games, over 5,500 young people from 186 different countries and all 50 states joined together to share their talents, their thoughts and their dreams. While they arrived at the University of Rhode Island as strangers, they left as friends with a shared understanding of their role as future world leaders.

Through experiences on the playing field or in the classroom or studio, in group discussions or informal gatherings, the Games have enabled participants to develop understanding, acceptance and friendship with peers from around the world. Through sport and cultural activities, each participant becomes an ambassador of goodwill and sportsmanship. As representatives of their countries, participants help others understand not only what is unique about their culture, but more importantly what is similar between cultures.

Since the first Games in 1993, students from around the world - young people of today who will serve as tomorrow's world leaders - have joined together to discuss pressing global matters while using sport and culture to establish open and long-lasting relationships. As you can tell, I am looking forward to the 2006 Games and can't wait to represent Wabash College!