DAPHNE, Ala.—In response to a request from the king of Bahrain, Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa, the United States Sports Academy undertook a special study of the state of the national sport effort in the Kingdom. A report containing the findings of the study, together with recommendations for the development of the Bahrain national sports effort, has been provided to the Royal Court.

Recognizing the academy’s long association with Bahrain that dates from 1977, Al-Khalifa made his request of academy President Thomas P. Rosandich in a meeting last October. Rosandich subsequently led a survey team to the Kingdom in February that included academy Vice President Dr. T.J. Rosandich and Betsy Smith, associate dean for Continuing Education and Instructional Design; they spent two weeks on a fact finding tour.

The team interviewed a wide array of individuals ranging from state ministers to private citizens who are in some way associated with Bahrain sports. The team also evaluated related areas such as the professional preparation of coaches and physical education teachers to a review of sports facilities and general youth sport programs and activities.

Upon the completion, the results were assembled into a final report that included recommendations for both short- and long-term improvements with respect to the national sport effort.  These recommendations are currently being considered by the Royal Court for implementation.

“The academy is uniquely qualified to undertake this study on behalf of his majesty,” said Rosandich. “The academy’s long-standing relationship with the kingdom of Bahrain includes the conduct of their entire national sport effort in 1970s and continues to this day with the teaching of our International Certification in Sports Management program for their sports ministry. 

“We do envision a continuing role for the academy going forward with sport education programs as a key to preparation for those individuals involved in the national sport effort.”