More than twenty Ultimate Peace leaders gathered in Ein Rafa, outside Jerusalem, at the home of the UP Fellows on Saturday.  The main objective for the day was to get the ball rolling on a number of conversations.  The first conversation was a brief one about what topics coaches wanted to learn more about and what tools they would like.  That was followed by an interesting talk from Rachel Markowitz on the field of Sports for Development and Peace (SDP) and where UP fits in.   Rachel Winner then led a conversation about the role of Coaches in Training (CITs) in their communities, in practices, and in the future of UP.  The questions that were raised here will be addressed in future meetings.  There was a short session brainstorming different ways to incorporate UP’s five values and a short session on communication methods.

With most of the talking out of the way, everyone headed for the local basketball court for a quick game of ultimate followed by dinner.  During dinner, the group was joined by UP CEO David Barkan via technology from half way around the world.  David thanked everyone for all their efforts making the program as successful as it is.CoachesMeeting

“Today’s coaches meeting highlighted the important role that UP’s volunteers have in the year-round program.” Said the day’s facilitator, Ben Spears. “Additionally, today is perhaps the first time that several CIT program graduates and current third-year CITs joined this kind of discussion. It is with these younger folks that UP’s mission, program quality, and sustainability meet… CITs growing as leaders in ultimate and in their communities.”