Zephyrhills Athlete to Represent the United States as a People to People Sports Ambassador
Contact Information:
Cyndi Gyngard
Full Description:
Josiah Gyngard, a football player with the Wesley Chapel Pasco Police Athletic League Bulls and a student at Raymond B Stewart Middle School in Zephyrhills, has been accepted into the People to People Sports Ambassador Program. In summer 2009, Gyngard will train and then compete in Austria as a part of the Youth Friendship Games. As part of this program he will explore Austria with teammates from throughout the United States.
In addition to building athletic skills, Gyngard can earn academic credit while getting to know the people, culture and history of the places visited. He will take part in a variety of activities such as community service projects, exploring Austria, visiting a festival in Austria, but most importantly competing internationally representing the USA in Football.
Acceptance into the Sports Ambassador Program is an honor. The international competition and education program was founded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956. After being invited to apply, Gyngard submitted references and participated in a successful interview with program coaches and leaders. Before departing he will attend orientation meetings with a local coordinator and coaches to prepare for his journey.
Gyngard will be met overseas and accompanied by a team of experienced coaches, including NFL Super Bowl MVP Mark Rypien, and many teacher/leaders. The athletic delegation will be escorted by a local delegation manager who coordinates the cultural and recreational excursions and is very familiar with local customs.
President Eisenhower founded People to People during his presidency with citizen leaders including entertainer Bob Hop, Olympic champion Jesse Owens, amusement entrepreneur Walt Disney and Hallmark Cards found Joyce Hall. Having served as a military commander, President Eisenhower believed that ordinary citizens of different nations could make a difference where governments could not. People to People Student Ambassador Programs is based in Spokane, Washington and has been coordinating the education travel programs for nearly 50 years.
Gyngard is very excited to have been given this opportunity. He will be having a Yard Sale 3/12-3/13 and 3/19-3/20 at 5442 Lisa Circle, Zephyrhills. Donations are also being accepted. You can contact Cyndi Gyngard @ 813-205-3905 or cyndi.gyngard@gmail.com
