Olympism
Olympism: "a philosophy of life, exalting and combining in a balanced whole the qualities of body, will and mind. Blending sport with culture and education, Olympism seeks to create a way of life based on the joy found in effort, the educational value of good example and respect for universal fundamental ethical principles. The goal of Olympism is to place sport at the service of the harmonious development of man, with a view to promoting a peaceful society concerned with the preservation of human dignity." (Olympic Charter 2004, Fundamental Principles, paragraph 1, 2)
The Olympic movement embodies the spirit of Olympism, enriching the will, body and mind. Through education and programming, the movement blends sport with culture to create a standard of friendship, solidarity and fair play.
Olympic values are inseparable from culture, and Olympism evolves according to the time period in which we live. It reaches its peak when the world's athletes come together at the great sports festival, the Olympic Games.
The practice of sport is a human right, and discrimination is incompatible with the Olympic movement. Olympism seeks to display universal respect and support those in all walks of life. This means more than just helping those in athletic competitions; it means everything from educating youth and pushing peace during wartime to advocating an equal opportunity for all.
The U.S. Olympic Committee strives to personify these ideals through programming and available resources it provides for all Americans.
The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win but to take part, just as the most important thing in life is not the triumph but the struggle. The essential thing is not to have conquered but to have fought well.
- Olympic Creed
The International Olympic Committee collaborated with YouTube to extend an online global challenge to sports fans across the world. Olympic athletes performed stunning feats of athleticism and then “challenged” fans to share their own athletically remarkable videos online. Team USA members including Lindsey Jacobellis, Shawn Johnson, Lolo Jones and Lindsey Vonn showed off their unique and amazing talents in this fun global challenge.
