In 2011 the United States Power Soccer team won its second consecutive World Cup title, becoming the only U.S. soccer team to win back-to-back World Cups. Despite this remarkable achievement, the team has not yet been invited to the White House to be honored by President Obama. I really believe that it is time for the White House to be proactive in celebrating the dedication and achievements of athletes of all abilities representing the U.S.A.
This April, the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team will visit the White House on their way to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. The goal of the campaign is to seek an invitation for the U.S. Power Soccer Team to join the U.S. Men's National Team in their visit. How great would it be for president Obama to have the opportunity to honor both teams at the same time, and send a message of inclusion to the world?
The United States won the first Power Soccer World Cup in Tokyo in 2007, defeating Belgium, England, Denmark, Japan and Portugal before beating France in a penalty shoot-out in the finals to win the cup. The team then made history when it defended its title in Paris four years later, defeating England 3-0 in the final becoming the first American soccer team to defend their title as world champions.
"Each year, winning teams in major sports in the U.S. spend time with the President; it is an honor athletes who reach the highest of milestones enjoy," said Chris Finn, Head Coach of the U.S. team. "Considering we are the only team in U.S. history to win TWO world cups, I think it is prudent for our team to visit with the President and introduce him to our growing global sport."
Power Soccer is the fastest growing sport for power wheelchair users. Players use these power wheelchairs to pass, defend, and spin-kick a large 13-inch soccer ball in a skilled and challenging game similar to traditional soccer. Teams of four athletes compete on a regulation-sized basketball court, under rules established by the governing body of power soccer, the Federation Internationale de Powerchair Football Association (FIFPA). This sport provides an unparalleled opportunity for everyone to be able to experience the magic of soccer.
As believer in sports as a tool to bring people together, I really believe that The U.S. Power Soccer Team can inspire millions with their accomplishments, and that President Obama has an incredible opportunity to honor this inspiring group of players.
To achieve this goal, USPSA and Senda Athletics are launching a Change.org campaign to gather 1,000 signatures of support, generate awareness for this cause and send the two-time defending World Cup champions to the White House.
For those of you on Twitter, we have created a web page that allows you to send a tweet to the people at the White House and US Soccer that can make this happen.
