Major League Baseball puts weight behind Beyond Sport
Major League Baseball is the latest major sports organisation to voice its support for the Beyond Sport global initiative.
In an open letter to Tony Blair, Chairman of the Beyond Sport Ambassadors, the Commissioner of Major League Baseball, Bud Selig lent his considerable weight to the Beyond Sport vision.
The letter reads: “On behalf of Major League Baseball, it is my great honor to applaud the new global initiative, Beyond Sport, which seeks to reward all those who have achieved positive social change through sport.
“During my tenure as the Commissioner of Baseball, I have often said that our sport is a social institution with enormous social responsibilities. The rich history of our game is blessed with many living examples of those who were committed to the betterment of others through action. Jackie Robinson and Roberto Clemente serve as permanent reminders of the social justice for which all of us should aspire. Generations later, Major League Baseball continues to draw inspiration from their legacies.
“I am proud that Major League Baseball embraces its global platform as an opportunity to help others in a myriad of ways. The mission of Beyond Sport resonates with all those whose lives have been touched by baseball. I consider it truly powerful that, around the world, baseball is a tool that can be used to impart life values such as sportsmanship, teamwork and effort, while also bringing families and friends together.
“I extend my best wishes to Beyond Sport which will shine a light on those whose good deeds merit celebration. Major League Baseball joins Beyond Sport in hoping that its example stirs everyone to make a difference.”
Major League Baseball joins a host of international sports federations and rights holders in endorsing Beyond Sport including the likes of the International Olympic Committee (IOC); the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF); and the International Tennis Federation (ITF).
For further information:
Drew Barrand, Beyond Sport Press Office: +44 (0)20 3355 8133
05 Jan 2009 -