HOUSTON, TX - The Houston Dynamo and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) are joining together in an effort to combat childhood obesity. The Dynamo's "Kicks for Kids" Foundation will host a youth soccer camp at the University of Houston on Sunday, September 17, 2006. The two hour camp runs from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., followed by the game between the Houston Dynamo and Chivas USA.
Obesity is responsible for the epidemic rise in the number of children being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, a chronic disease which affects nearly 21 million children and adults. Medical experts say lack of exercise and poor nutrition are the culprits.
The "Kicks for Kids" camp, hosted by team players, coaches and trainers, stresses the importance of physical activity, healthy eating habits, soccer techniques and good sportsmanship.
150 at-risk children are expected to attend. These children have been identified through the ADA's "CHASE" program. "CHASE" targets at-risk youth, ages 6-17, to help them in "Choosing Healthy and Sensible Exercise" as a lifestyle. This after-school program is helping pre-diabetic youth understand their risks and has proven to be effective in lowering their body mass index (BMI) and changing their eating habits.
The event is sponsored by the law firm of Gardere, Wynne, Sewell LLP, a generous sponsor of the American Diabetes Association.
The American Diabetes Association is the nation's premier voluntary health organization supporting diabetes research, information and advocacy. The Association's mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. Founded in 1940, the Association provides services to hundreds of communities across the country. For more information, please call the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383) or visit www.diabetes.org. Information from both these sources is available in English and Spanish.
WHAT: Soccer Camp organized by the Houston Dynamo and the American Diabetes Association for approximately 150 children at-risk for Diabetes.
WHEN: Sunday, September 17, 2006
3:30 to 5:30 p.m.</p>
WHERE: Carl Lewis Track Field
University of Houston, between the Athletic Alumni Facility and Melcher Gymnasium</p>
For day of event information, please Contact Judy Cushman-DuBose at 281-841-3271.
