Coach Post (Alex)

Riding home tonight one of the athletes said “Every day here just keeps getting better.” I couldn’t agree more. Since we got here the kids have handled themselves with maturity, engaged actively in the activities, formed genuine friendships, and begun to establish themselves as leaders. The past two days have been the most rewarding. Yesterday after soccer we toured the Constitutional Court and heard Edwin Cameron speak about his battle with HIV/AIDS. Before meeting Justice Cameron, we toured the court, which is architecturally stunning. Situated on Constitutional Hill, known to locals as “Number 4,” after the apartheid jails, the court was built in 2003 and stands out among the older buildings. Justice Cameron’s speech was moving. I was captivated by his honesty and confidence – speaking openly about being an openly gay man with AIDS. After he spoke he asked, “I want you to ask me about sex.” This was one of the first opportunities on the trip for the kids to speak with someone infected with the disease they have been learning about all week. The questions they asked showed how far they have come. At the end we started to plan our projects for the end of the trip. My group decided to do body maps with symbols, what they have learned about themselves and HIV/AIDS this week. I was impressed that one of the girls, Unique, came up with the idea considering how quiet she has been throughout the trip. The four kids in group “Chakalaka Thunda” are quiet but insightful. I can see them all gaining confidence from this trip and becoming leaders back in DC. Today when we went to the AIDS orphanage I saw each of them playing with the orphans, which makes me happy to see their engagement. The South African kids have been great teachers and friends to all of us. I am excited to see how the final presentations turn out on Sunday and go to the game!

-Al