ORANGEBURG, SC – Some 250 youths, representing seven states, received some pertinent advice Monday during the Associated Marine Institutes (AMI) kids opening ceremony and pep rally from host South Carolina State’s president, Dr. George E. Cooper, and state representatives Jerry Govan of Orangeburg and Mike Anthony of Union.
AMIkids, a non-profit organization which helps troubled youths turn their lives around and become productive citizens, is conducting its four-day (Jun. 1-4) 2009 Sports Challenge Summer Games at SC State. Youths representing some 30 clubs from the seven states, participate in challenging athletic and academic events during the four days, which culminate with an awards program Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at the Felton Laboratory School gym on the campus.
During Monday’s opening ceremony at Felton, Dr. Cooper welcomed an enthusiastic group to Orangeburg and the SC State campus.
“Your excitement and enthusiasm, “Cooper said, “Tells me that this is an event your all having been looking forward to. The challenges and competition you will engage in the next three days will help prepare you for life. And, you should remember that your attitude in life determines your altitude. Work hard and you can accomplish much.”
Both Representative Govan and Anthony echoed Dr. Cooper’s sentiments.
“In order to be successful in your life’s endeavors,” said Rep. Anthony, “You must W I N -- W = willing to pay the price; I = invest your time and energy; and N = never let circumstances dictate how you act.”
“Your good name and your word are among the most important things in life,” said Rep. Govan. “As you move from this point to the next, you must protect your good name, and this will require wisdom, knowledge and commitment. You are tomorrow’s Barack and Michelle Obama.”
The group, which spent most of Monday developing science projects, will compete in track and field on Tuesday, swimming on Wednesday and volleyball on Thursday, beginning at 9:30 a.m. daily. An assembly and award program begins daily at 7 p.m.
Two of the top officials of AMIkids, which is headquartered in Tampa, Fla., are former SC State football players – Heyward Golden (DB 1980-83) and Zach Thomas (WR 1977-81).
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