Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs

DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL SPORTS INITIATIVES
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The Director of International Sports Initiatives oversees the U.S. State Department's involvement in international athletic competitions and its support of international athletic events, including the Olympics, develops new sports programs, and serves as a U.S. Government primary contact with the international sports community.

The United States has a long history of supporting international athletic events, including hosting eight modern Olympic games. In addition, thousands of athletes have represented the U.S. in games all over the world. The U.S. government supports international athletic competitions because these events provide a showcase for American culture, promote mutual understanding between nations, generate a sense of national pride and create a significant economic impact.

The Director of International Sports Initiatives plays a major role in coordinating events held in the U.S. and abroad. The director serves as a U.S. government liaison with the international sports community and works with State Department bureaus and other federal agencies to facilitate participation of foreign athletes and attendance by dignitaries at competitions held in the U.S. When U.S athletes participate in large-scale events abroad, the director works with overseas posts to help ensure security and consular support for American athletes and spectators. In addition, the director works on "sports diplomacy" initiatives designed to tie sports activities to foreign policy objectives.

For further information, contact:
Director of International Sports Initiatives
Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs
U.S. Department of State, SA-44
301 4th Street, S.W., Room 816
Washington, D.C. 20547
Phone: 202/203-7024
Fax: 202/203-5115
Email: bishopnl@state.gov

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