The Afghan Youth Sports Exchange: 2004 Program Summary
06/20/2004
The first ever Afghan girls soccer team arrived
to the United States on June 20th, 2004 and were greeted to
a warm welcome to the States. The team arrived into the Maryland/DC
area for two weeks where they became acclimated to their new
environment. They were hosted graciously at the home of Duaine
and Barbara Goodno. The girls enjoyed a relaxing time at their
home and enjoyed the pool where some learned to swim for the
first time.
They got re-adjusted to their new time zone, and had an opportunity
to go on several fun excursions to explore the United States.
Their six-week stay in the States started off busy with dental
cleanings done by a local Afghan dentist, Dr. Riaz Rayek and
members of the Kings Park Dental Partner. Another local doctor,
Dr. Behsudi, helped by examining the girls with a medial check-up.
The girls had many fun trips planned for them
which included visiting the National Zoo in DC, a trip to Virginia
Beach, and an exciting trip to Bush Gardens. Their fearless
spirit came through at Bush Gardens where the girls conquered
every roller coaster in the park. By far this was the highlight
of their trip! The team also enjoyed watching professional level
soccer at a Washington Freedom women's soccer game, and at the
D.C. United Game.
Part of their stay involved a visit to the Pentagon
to meet Secretary Rumsfeld. The girls had an opportunity to
learn soccer lessons from the Washington Freedom Women's Soccer
team on the front lawn of the Pentagon while members of the
International Women's Council watched on. The girls took this
opportunity to share with the Secretary their hope and dreams
for the future of Afghanistan. For lunch that day, the girls
were treated to a wonderful lunch hosted by The team was hosted
by Ambassador Said Tayeb Jawad, his wife Shamim Jawad, and staff
of the Embassy of Afghanistan in Washington D.C. A press conference
was also organized for the team while at the Embassy
