Sports Education Teams

• On The New York Times Sports Department and Team Co-Captains Thomas Jolly and William Pennington “No other individual or team selection generated as much passionate discussion as the New York Times Sports Department. Some Institute staffers and committee members expressed the view that the Times coverage of the Duke Lacrosse case was egregiously unfair and an unfortunate example of journalistic “rush to judgment.” Others felt the coverage was fair. Ironically, the spirited discussions about this particular issue has caused the Institute to add “Sports Journalism Ethics” as a theme day at the 2008 United States Scholar-Athlete Games. The scholar-athletes and scholar-artists will be required to read a series of New York Times columns/articles on the Duke lacrosse case, and share their own judgments at a June 29, 2008 United States Scholar-Athlete Games theme day discussion on the issue. Despite the differing views, there was unanimity of opinion that The New York Times Sports Department is made up of a brilliant group of writers who do as effective sports educators do - they cause us to think, question, disagree and grow in critical thinking skills. As fine a group of sports journalists as has ever been assembled at an American newspaper.”
• National Senior Games “With great effectiveness, the National Senior Games has reached an extraordinary number of senior citizens, encouraging literally thousands to enjoy the benefits of living a healthy and active life. The National Senior Games has provided innumerable opportunities for adults over 50 to continue to participate in competitive events, all the while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow competitors. An inspiring program”
• Springfield College “Under the able direction of President Richard Flynn, the school has become synonymous with excellence in the field of Physical Education. Springfield College graduates have had a global impact on health, recreation and the sports education mission. A tremendous legacy of excellence.”
• The United States Track and Field Federation (USATF) Led by its outstanding CEO, Craig Masback, the USATF has effectively focused on educating coaches, athletes and support personnel through such acclaimed programs as “Zero Tolerance” and the “Be A Champion” Program. The Zero Tolerance program was among the first official policies of its kind to advocate the now ubiquitous phrase of “zero tolerance” for drug use in sport. The Be A Champion program is an athlete outreach program in which Olympic Medalists go around the country and educate youth about the importance of sportsmanship and teaching the positive results of leading a physically active, drug-free and healthy lifestyle.
• ESPN Outside the Lines "Few other programs on television are doing a better job of exposing and exploring important issues in sports. Led by the famed and eloquent sportscaster Bob Ley and brilliant producer Ronnie Forchheimer, the award-winning program has tackled topics ranging from steroid use to the impact of Hurricane Katrina, and profiled thousands of athletes and sports personalities."
• Only a Game "Each week, veteran NPR commentator Bill Littlefield informs and inspires millions of listeners with stories in the world of sports. With a dash of humor, thoughtful analysis and interviews with icons like John Updike, Bud Collins, and Muhammad Ali, Only a Game has become a national treasure and Mr. Littlefield has become a nationally recognized voice of sports education."
• NBA Read to Achieve "Read to Achieve has inspired millions of children across the country with a lifelong love of reading. Reaching an estimated 50 million young people every year, Read to Achieve is the most extensive educational outreach initiative in the history of professional sports. A great credit to David Stern and other NBA executives."
• Prevention Magazine "As the 10th largest magazine in the United States, Prevention is a beacon for people interested in living healthier lives. Through its magazine, books, website, and Team Prevention walking programs, Prevention has helped millions of people literally change their lives."
• HBO Real Sports "Led by Ross Greenberg, one of the greatest producers in the sport or entertainment field, and Bryant Gumbel, as fine a sports journalist and host as there is in America, HBO Real Sports has assembled a "dream team" of correspondents which includes the likes of Frank Deford, Mary Carillo and Bernard Goldberg. The program is as thought provoking as any of its kind in the history of television. Real Sports offers unparalleled insights into a variety of subjects, all of which are examined thoughtfully and thoroughly."
• USA Swimming and Team Captain Chuck Wieglus “USA Swimming has an admirable commitment to address the needs of swimmers and parents at all levels- not just the elite level- with a consistent focus on the educational value of sport. Executive Director Wieglus is an inspiring leader who brings great perspective and wisdom to his position.”
• The Blauner Books Literary Agency and Team Captain Andrew Blauner “What is so impressive about this remarkable literary agency is the consistently high standard of books that the agency and Mr. Blauner represent. It is clear that a key agency objective is to publish books that make worthy contributions to the concept of sports education.”