The Coalition for The National Foundation on Physical Fitness, Sports and Nutrition Praises Congressional Passage of The National Foundation on Physical Fitness, Sports and Nutrition Act

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today the Coalition for the National Foundation on Physical Fitness, Sports and Nutrition praised the House of Representatives for passing S. 1275. The bill, which has already passed the Senate, now goes to the President, who is expected to sign it into law soon.

“Without the strong support of organizations like the USOC, the professional sports leagues, health and children’s organizations, all the way to statewide coaches and pediatricians associations, this would not have been possible”

The National Foundation on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition Establishment Act (S. 1275) creates a Congressionally-chartered foundation to bring private sector resources to promote sports, activity and good nutrition, and combat obesity crisis. The Foundation will also work in conjunction with and provide funds to the President’s Council on Physical Fitness, Sports and Nutrition.

“We are overjoyed with the passage of this bill by the Congress,” said former Congressman and NBA player Tom McMillen, Chair of the Coalition. “This is a giant step forward for the health of our nation and our kids in particular. We want to thank Sen. Warner and Cong. Sarbanes for their leadership and hard work in getting this legislation through the Congress,” McMillen said. McMillen served as Co-Chair of the President’s Council under President Clinton.

“We also want to thank all the organizations that played a vital role in this effort,” said Bonnie Bernstein, ESPN journalist and Vice Chair of the Coalition. “Without the strong support of organizations like the USOC, the professional sports leagues, health and children’s organizations, all the way to statewide coaches and pediatricians associations, this would not have been possible,” added Bernstein.

“Now the next phase kicks in,” said Rob Housman, Partner with Book Hill Partners and Vice Chair of the Coalition. “We intend to have funds waiting for the Foundation when it first meets. We will be reaching out to corporate and philanthropic leaders and asking for their support. And, we will be looking to develop ideas for creative partnerships with the private sector for the Foundation to consider. If your organization wants to get involved, please contact us,” Housman added.

About the Coalition:

The Coalition for the National Foundation on Physical Fitness, Sports and Nutrition is an ad hoc coalition of likeminded organizations who are advocating legislation to create a Congressionally-chartered Foundation to support the President’s Council on Physical Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition and youth activity, sports and nutrition programs generally. The Coalition led efforts to enact S. 1275.

For more information, visit www.Prescouncilfoundation.org or contact Rob Housman: 202-289-3636; [e-mail].