Annika Sorenstam – Hall of Fame LPGA Golfer
November 23rd, 2009
Posted by Annika Sorenstam
Annika Sorenstam
Growing up in a small town in Sweden I played all kinds of sports. I loved the competition, camaraderie, and travel that came with playing those sports. As I grew older and more focused on golf, I met so many people around the world and learned many life lessons. I was very fortunate to have great parents, coaches, and mentors. However, it always seemed to be my heroes in sports who inspired me. It wasn’t just because they were winning tournaments, breaking records or making lots of money. It was because I felt emotionally tied to them and their actions outside of the arena. They were cool, they were humble, they influenced others, and they gave back. These athletes helped in the community, which showed us that a difference can be made with a strong will, had work, and a big heart. They inspired me to one day follow their footsteps.
Therefore, I always knew that I would give back once I was successful in my sport. My dream to start a Foundation came to fruition in 2007. The ANNIKA Foundation was created to help kids live a healthy, active lifestyle through fitness and nutrition, and to help aspiring junior golfers reach their potential. Childhood obesity is an epidemic in our country, and if we don’t act immediately, this generation of children could be the first to not outlive the prior generation. Think about that…..it is disgusting!
These initiatives are part of my life and my story. They come from my heart and do not feel like an “obligation” to me, but rather a passion. I will do all that I can to help others live their dreams, because that is exactly what my heroes did for me. My journey would not be complete if I didn’t close the loop and help the next generation on and off the playing field.
Posted By Cris Collinsworth on November 30th, 2009
Keep up the great work, Annika, just watch out for those fire hydrants . . . All professional athletes have been given a tremendous opportunity in life, and whether we like it or not, athletes serve as role models for kids. We have an obligation to the kids/fans to try to “do the right thing.” That can be anything – there are so many good causes out there and we can motivate kids to get involved in their communities and find their passion. Giving back creates a natural high and becomes addictive – for athletes, fans, and kids. Together with friends in the pro sports world, we founded a site called UGIVE.ORG that connects the next generation to volunteer at all types of causes. Athletes can encourage students to volunteer for their cause – there is a real multiplier effect when an athlete gets involved. Shaq is motivating kids right now in a contest where the basketball team that recruits the most students to do community service gets to meet Shaq and be recognized at a Cavs game. So with just a few minutes of his time, Shaq is motivating thousands of kids to give their time to causes they care about – check out UGIVE.ORG if you want to motivate students and do the right thing.
Posted By Heather Mitts on November 25th, 2009
As athletes, we are in a very fortunate role. I have had a hard time with this question because I think it could go either way. However, I don’t think we should be required, I feel that we should want to give back. It is a personal choice. Athletes are role models whether we want to be or not. We have been given a special gift and luckily it puts us on a platform to be able to connect with a larger audience. Soccer has given me a great opportunity to touch people’s lives. Even if it is one or two. It’s just making a difference in someone else’s life. I have teamed up with the Homeless Soccer League, Bride to Cross which connects with those less fortunate in South Africa and the Boys and Girls Club. I have been able to give back through my sport and because I am an athlete. Being an athlete is a dream come true but being able to give back makes me feel like a complete person. I owe a lot to Athlete’s for Hope for helping me connect with many of these groups. Thank you. PICTURES
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