WASHINGTON, D.C. (Press Release) — Through the State Department’s sports diplomacy programs, 30 Israeli and Palestinian youth basketball coaches are connecting with each other and their American peers on and off the court October 5-19. This exchange program is part of the U.S. Government’s efforts to assist those who believe people of different nationalities, ethnicities, and creeds can live alongside one another constructively and peacefully.
Throughout the 14-day program taking place in Washington, D.C., New York City, and Stamford, CT, the participants will engage in workshops with an emphasis on conflict resolution, sports management, and leadership, and participate in basketball and mentorship programs with American youth. The participants will also interact with students at local elementary schools and high schools, highlighting the importance of teamwork, self-confidence, hard work, and respect for others.
The exchange program is the culmination of a two-year in-country Leadership Development Program led by U.S. athletes and educators to facilitate the professional development of a cadre of young Palestinian and Israeli coaches who will work together through sports. Throughout the two years, the U.S. athletes and educators hosted weekly sessions to assist the young coaches both with basketball techniques and with using sports to bring people together.
Upon returning home, the coaches will continue to play a leadership role within the PeacePlayers International organization, Middle East division, as trained coaches and mentors, sharing their experiences with hundreds of local children and working together to create social change in their communities. PeacePlayers International, founded on the premise that “children who play together can learn to live together,” is partnering with the State Department to implement the program.
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Preceding provided by the U.S. State Department