By what gauge does one judge the state of racquetball in the U.S? From July 15-23 in Cali, Colombia at the World Games, the international racquetball community will be introduced to TEAM USA, the product of the current U.S system. Though some racquetball insiders may judge more critically, the casual fan determines a country’s strength by the success of its top talent. The South American countries have undergone periods of extraordinary growth and success in racquetball. No longer does the birthplace of the sport hold the leader's position in the international scene as the majority of those poised for great things are almost exclusively not from the United States. The discussion about the decline of American racquetball and the sport itself can seem like a revolving door of ideas. The Reaching Your Dream Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping young male and female athletes enter into the professional arena, strongly believes that the infusion of new players can directly impact not only the lives of players, but also affect match-ups and outcomes on the largest of stages. A case in point is the USA men's doubles team members, Jake Bredenbeck and Jose Diaz, two of these young players chosen and supported by the Reaching Your Dream Foundation for several years, culminating in the highest honor of being Team USA’s doubles team. At the 2016 U.S National Doubles Championships, Diaz and Bredenbeck had a searing run through a draw featuring top teams and players from the country. They were able to overcome every team in route to the title, and earn a spot on the men's national team. This accomplishment would have been very difficult, if not impossible, had it not been for the Reaching Your Dream Foundation. RYDF helps young, promising talent with a variety of resources that can include assistance with air fare, lodging, and entry fees. As difficult as it is to play at their level, it is equally difficult to carve out a living in the sport, especially as an American. Thanks in large part to the donations of generous and loyal players, friends, and fans of racquetball, Diaz and Bredenbeck were able to gain their rightful position as the U.S national doubles team representing their country at the World Games. The perceived decline of U.S racquetball may appear greater than it is because of recent surges in participation and money that has been invested into the sport in other parts of the world. Substantially funded programs like those of Mexico, Bolivia, and Colombia have made those countries more dominant in the sport. For all the conjecture and uncertainty about where the U.S game may be headed, the RYDF has played and is playing a vital part in helping our best talent showcase itself to the United States and now to the world. There would be no Diaz and Bredenbeck in the draw at the U.S Open, the National Doubles, or at the World Games without, to some extent, the support of the RYDF. With the help of RYDF, Jake and Jose proved that they were the best team in the country and not having the best team in the country playing at the world games would be unfortunate for U.S racquetball. The World Games is not only a show of a country’s power but also a proving ground for individual athletes who have their own personal dreams and aspirations. Diaz and Bredenbeck will not only carry the weight of their own goals but also the hopes of their country. We salute Jose and Jake for their dedication and will to win, just as we at RYDF are deeply grateful to donors such as you helping RYDF supported players to reach their dreams. Thank you for your past and future support!
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