World’s Number One Female Golfer Looks Forward to Working with Youngsters
ORLANDO (April 11, 2007) – Annika Sorenstam, the world’s No. 1 female golfer, has announced an alliance with the Make-A-Wish Foundation®, the world’s largest wish-granting organization. Annika will be a national ambassador for the foundation and will be featured in a national PSA campaign this summer. The Make-A-Wish Foundation grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. "I am at a point in my career where I am able to start focusing on giving back. The game of golf has given me so much, and through it I hope to give some joy to children at a time when they need it most," Annika said.
With the help of generous donors and nearly 25,000 volunteers, the Make-A-Wish Foundation serves children over the age of 2½ and under the age of 18 facing life-threatening medical conditions. Last year, the foundation granted more than 12,600 wishes – a wish every 41 minutes – through its 69 chapters in the United States and U.S. territories. "Our brand statement is ‘share the power of a wish,’ and Annika’s is ‘share my passion.’ We believe this is a fantastic connection. Not only is Annika the world’s best player, she is a wonderful person," says Jennifer Maher, vice president, marketing and corporate alliances, for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America.
Annika has made the Make-A-Wish Foundation one of the main charitable beneficiaries of The Ginn Tribute Hosted by ANNIKAâ?¢, a new LPGA tournament taking place in Charleston the first week of June. They will also be involved in the ANNIKA Academyâ?¢, Annika’s new golf school that will open next Monday (April 16). "I may face adversity on the course, but it is nothing compared to what many of these kids face each day. They are the real champions, and I am honored to have been chosen to try and help make a difference in their lives," Annika said.
Since 1980, the Make-A-Wish Foundation has enriched the lives of children with life-threatening medical conditions through its wish-granting work. The Foundation’s mission reflects the life-changing impact that a Make-A-Wish® experience has on children, families, referral sources, donors, sponsors and entire communities. To find out more about the Make-A-Wish Foundation and discover seven ways you can help share the power of a wish®, visit www.wish.org .
The ANNIKA Academy will blend golf and fitness in a luxurious environment at Ginn Reunion Resort. This "boutique-style" school will cater to small groups or individuals who thirst for the knowledge to take their games to the next level. With help from her one and only swing coach, Henri Reis, and her personal fitness trainer, Kai Fusser, golfers of all skill levels can learn the game through the same unique methods that have taken Annika to the top. Combining one-on-one instruction, personalized workout programs, and a state-of-the-art facility will provide students with an unforgettable experience.
Contact:
Steve Brener/Matt Paulson/Dana Von Louda, BZA, 818-344-6195, Ext. 103/107/407-232-5904
Brent Goodrich, Make-A-Wish, 602-279-9474, Ext. 5210
