Posted by Lee Satterfield on Feb 24, 2012 - 07:26 PM
![Basketball coaches from India stand outside the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C., February 24, 2012. [State Department photo/ Public Domain]](http://blogs.state.gov/images/Dipnote/behind_the_scenes/2012_0224_india_coaches_m.jpg)
In my conversation with the coaches, I explained that ECA bridges cultures and promotes understanding between the United States and other countries through a diverse range of exchange programs. Exchanges with youth, emerging leaders, academics, athletes, and the arts community, send Americans abroad and bring participants to the United States. International participants meet directly with Americans and experience American culture and values first-hand. I reminded our visiting group of coaches that it is equally important for them to share their background and culture with the Americans they meet. It is this mutual sharing of cultures, ideas, and practices that leads to a better understanding of our counterparts around the world.
Sports surmount cultural and language differences and unite people in the love of a good game. Through mutual appreciation and sportsmanship enduring friendships are built. We are thrilled to host this special group from India, visitors that have in only a few days created people-to-people relationships through sports.
The SportsUnited Division brings youth athletes and coaches to the United States as well as sends sports envoys to countries abroad. This is the second basketball exchange for India. Last year as Sports Envoys, NBA Hall of Famer George "The Iceman" Gervin and WNBA's Katie Smith traveled to Mumbai and New Delhi.