Amateur Athletic Union of the United States

The Amateur Athletic Union of the United States (AAU) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion and development of amateur sports and physical fitness programs in the U.S. Founded in 1888, the AAU aims to provide sports opportunities for participants of all ages, emphasizing the philosophy of "Sports For All, Forever."

History

The AAU was established to establish standards and uniformity in amateur sports. Initially, it served as a leader in international sports, representing the U.S. in various international sports federations and preparing athletes for the Olympic Games. In the late 1970s, the AAU shifted its focus to grassroots sports programs for participants of all ages.

Programs and Events

The AAU offers an extensive range of sports programs across more than 45 sports, including basketball, boxing, gymnastics, and track and field. Notable events include the AAU Junior Olympic Games, which is one of the largest multi-sport events in the U.S., and the AAU Junior National Volleyball Championships, the largest volleyball event worldwide, with over 2,700 teams participating annually.

Awards and Recognition

The AAU presents several prestigious awards, such as the AAU James E. Sullivan Award, which honors the nation's outstanding amateur athlete annually since 1930. The AAU Gussie Crawford Lifetime Achievement Award, established in 2017, recognizes athletes who have made significant contributions to amateur sports.

Mission and Culture

The AAU's mission is to offer amateur sports programs that foster physical, mental, and moral development of athletes while promoting good sportsmanship and citizenship. Its culture emphasizes inclusivity, community, and the development of leaders through sports participation.

Impact and Partnerships

The AAU has collaborated with organizations like the National Fitness Foundation to expand youth sports participation. It also manages the Presidential Youth Fitness Program, focusing on modernizing fitness education and promoting healthy lifestyles among youths. The AAU relocated its national headquarters to Orlando, Florida, in 1996 and has hosted numerous events at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.