Submitted by Saba Hale, Development Outreach Communication Intern/Southern Africa
South African youth get autographs from Clarence Goodson (right) and Landon Donovan (left) at the U.S. Team's Open Practice on June 6, 2010.
Landon Donovan and Clarence Goodson may be winning the hearts of Americans, but they are also inspiring the youth of South Africa. A group of young people met the two rising stars only weeks before Donovan scored the winning goal that advanced the U.S. team to the second round of the World Cup. Interactions like this one prove that soccer is more than just a sport. The World Cup is an opportunity to reinforce development objectives. USAID is committed to prevention programs that provide the youth of South Africa with the knowledge, skills, social support, and services they need to help reduce their risk of HIV infection.
The more disadvantaged kids that are helped and encouraged to make something of their lives the better. They will now grow up knowing the effects of AIDS and spread the message so that this disease can be brought down to “0″.
Soccer is a great way to reach these kids on their level, and who knows perhaps South Africa can find another star!