for immediate release

July 2, 2007

Past NYSP participant Alan Anderson goes on to a successful NBA career

MINNEAPOLIS-- Born in Minneapolis, Alan Anderson of National Basketball Association’s Charlotte Bobcats is a past participant in the National Youth Sports Program at the University of St. Thomas. Anderson participated in the 2000 U.S.A. Basketball Youth Development Festival, leading the North squad to a gold medal. He attended Michigan State University and played basketball as a Spartan, during which his senior year’s success earned him the title of Most Valuable Player. He graduated in 2005 with a degree in Community Family Services. Anderson exemplifies how important it is to build both academics and athletics in today’s youth to stimulate interest in education after high school.

From June 25 through July 13, 2007, the University of St. Thomas will be proud to welcome the one hundred urban youth who will be participating in the National Youth Sports Program (NYSP) for the 17th year. This opportunity serves underprivileged youth from around the metro area as they are invited to enjoy a productive summer by learning athletic, academic, and life skills. Program participants will be involved with activities designed to increase self-esteem, develop leadership and problem solving skills, and teach young scholar-athletes how to make decisions that help them reach beyond urban challenges to create greater opportunities.

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