[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 38 (Tuesday, March 6, 2007)]
[Senate]
[Page S2690]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       NATIONAL SPORTSMANSHIP DAY

  Mr. REED. Mr. President, I would like to acknowledge that today, 
March 6th, 2007, we celebrate the 17th annual National Sportsmanship 
Day. Created by the Institute for International Sport at the University 
of Rhode Island in 1991, this initiative seeks to promote and develop 
the highest ideals of sportsmanship and fair play among not only 
America's youth but also the international community. Over its 17 
years, more than 13,500 schools and 80 million individuals across all 
50 States and many countries around the world have participated in 
National Sportsmanship Day activities. On this day, in elementary 
schools, middle schools, high schools, and colleges, students, 
teachers, coaches, and parents will discuss issues regarding 
sportsmanship and fair play.
  This year, National Sportsmanship Day will focus on the themes 
``Don't Punch Back, Play Harder'' and ``Defeat Gamesmanship.'' These 
themes will prompt participants to explore the practical values of 
``competitive self-restraint'' and playing within the intended spirit 
of the rules. It is important for both our society and our culture that 
we instill these values in our youth. Additionally, the celebration 
will include the 14th annual USA Today National Sportsmanship Day Essay 
Contest.
  I am pleased to say that Rhode Island is home to the Institute for 
International Sport and National Sportsmanship Day. For 17 years, the 
institute and this initiative have enhanced the nature and health of 
competition among our Nation's youth. The efforts of Senator Claiborne 
Pell and his able staff member Barry Sklar, Senator John Chafee, 
founder Dan Doyle, and many others have contributed to the success of 
this endeavor. I know that this year's National Sportsmanship Day 
celebration will continue to promote fair play and in so doing ensure a 
sound foundation of sportsmanship for today and for the future.

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