From its inception, the Modern Olympic Movement has fused education with sport and culture to improve both the body and mind. Pierre de Coubertin, the father of the Modern Olympic Games, crafted a vision of universal education through Olympism, spreading such ideals as discipline, focus, vision, commitment, and persistence. In fact, the 2004 Olympic Charter articulates this longstanding commitment to education in its Fundamental Principles:
Olympism is a philosophy of life, exalting and combining in a balanced whole the qualities of body, will and mind. Blending sport with culture and education, Olympism seeks to create a way of life based on the joy found in effort, the educational value of good example and respect for universal fundamental ethical principles.
The goal of education-of Olympism-may be summarized in a quote from 2000 by then IOC President Juan Antonio Samaranch: "Every act of support for the Olympic Movement promotes peace, friendship and solidarity throughout the world."
The U.S. Olympic Committee invites you to explore
its initiatives and programs dedicated to spreading
the Olympic Ideals and Values.
