We have returned from our trip and its business as normal. However, part of me is still oversees with our new friends the Beit Jala Lions and the Peres Centre for Peace and the legacy they are in the process of creating. Thank you to everyone who has been following our trip and I hope you have enjoyed the updates. This is my final blog and reflection on our trip.
 
Before coming to Israel (and Palestine) I wasn’t sure what to expect, I had little knowledge about its history and therefore I was anxious of how we would be perceived by young people, the locals and our new colleagues. The majority of our first four days were spent in the West Bank and I have to say, I have great respect and warmth for the Palestinians and especially our new brothers the Beit Jala Lions. Thanks to the Lions we saw many of the local and legendary sights, sampled local delicacies and they even hosted a party for us on our final night, thanks guys. Our final couple of days were spent in Tel Aviv and organised by our friends at the Peres Centre for Peace, their vision and passion is an inspiration to us all and they are regularly working across borders and supporting young people. Our week also ran smoothly due to the excellent leadership skills from Cricket for Changes CEO Andy Sellins. Just the logistical organisation that comes with working across borders has been excellent and Andy’s leadership skills inspired both his team, myself and everyone who came into contact with him.
 
Overall the week kept us pretty busy however there are some highlights that will remain with me forever. They were introducing and developing sport on a wider agenda and providing platforms for growth, engaging and combining young people from all areas to work and play together. In our down time we were at the forefront of religious history and have lived in an area that for many years has been in conflict.

I hope the programmes of sport and the partnerships built this week between the two nations continue to grow together. I hope that one day all young people have the opportunities to compete in sport on a local, national and international level. I hope that in the future there is improved access and investment in sport developing greater infrastructures, education and training programmes, facilities etc all focussed on engaging, developing and promoting young talent from all areas.
 
I believe this past week we met people more than capable of delivering this vision and they have our full support and best wishes. If anyone wanted more information on how they could support the Peres Centre for Peace or the Beit Jala Lions then get in touch by clicking on the links or contacting me at 2nd chance Project.
 
 
Signing out

James

PS Check out our Facebook Page for more photos

Posted: 25.02.11 16:02