Friends/Supporters:

One of the highlights of 2007 was my 3rd annual "American Basketball Coach in Sweden" program. I love helping youth stay on the right path along with improving their basketball knowledge. In May 2007, Steve Freeland, my program volunteers and I worked with 12-15 youth for one week in Stockholm. A few of them had been with us in previous years and we were thrilled by their progress.

While Steve was coaching, he was also evaluating as his dream is to bring a Swedish team to our hometown of Harrisburg, PA. In addition, we talked with the youth about what they want out of life. Many want to go to the USA as a way to make strong connections and play a higher level of basketball. Steve and I hope to bring some of them to the States in the years to come.

I want to thank my supporters immensely for their donations in 2007. Your generosity makes it possible for so many less fortunate youth to be inspired, taught and touched!

The email below from one of the participants from 2006 makes me feel good about the impact of the program and what it has accomplished.

Hello George,

It was really nice seeing you, Steve, and Kolya last night. I hope that the camp is going well for you. I think you guys are doing an incredible job giving back to the community, and allowing us to pursue our dreams and have a better future. I speak for all the guys when I say that your knowledge, understanding and counsel are very valuable to us all. We thank you all for your kindness, generosity and help. It is always a pleasure speaking with you guys, not just about basketball, but about life. I just hope that we can one day repay you all for all your efforts and support. I look forward to seeing and speaking with guys soon. Once again thank you very very much. Give my thanks to Steve and Kolya also.

Sincerely, Jean

In 2008, the program plans to work with an American Basketball Coach that lives in Sweden. I am excited to work with his youth! Details will be coming soon.

My mother in law, Lena Lenner and my high school basketball coach, Paul Lavelle both died in 2007. I dedicated the 3rd year to them.

In their honor, the program has donated:

1) 650 sek (100.00$) to http://www.cancerfonden.se/ in the name of Lena Lenner
2) 100.00$ to Paul Lavelle's church, St. Margaret Mary's. His wife Pat said that is what he would have wanted.

Thanks again and have a wonderful 2008!

Sincerely,


George