(Ashburn, Va.) The National Recreation and Park Association is teaming with Sports Illustrated to heighten awareness of the importance of parks, recreation and leisure by honoring sports programs and facilities across the country. Beginning in July, and continuing weekly through July of 2004, a Sports Illustrated Sportstown will be recognized in each of the 50 states, ultimately identifying the best sports communities in America.

Through a formal application process, the NRPA and Sports Illustrated will choose one Sportstown in each state based on a variety of criteria that demonstrates a community’s commitment to facilitating and enhancing quality sports. Communities will be judged in the following categories: philosophy, policy/procedures, education and training strategies, youth development strategies, community commitment to parks and recreation resources, innovations for community development, and scope of programming.

The effort is part of SI’s 50th anniversary program, the most ambitious initiative in the history of the magazine, which turns 50 in 2004. In the context of sports being an enormous force for good and a major catalyst in giving Americans a sense of community, America’s Sports Illustrated: 50 Years, 50 States, 50 Sports will be a wide-ranging, year-long celebration of sports. The Sportstown recognition will be one of the major elements of a community outreach program designed to enhance the quality of sports in America’s communities. Sportstown recipients will be feted in a special ceremony, will receive a cash grant and featured in the magazine.

“I’m excited that America is raising a generation who takes it as a matter of course that there is going to be a team available for them to play with, a coach to teach them new skills, and a place to play,” said David O. Lose, FASLA, chair of the NRPA Board of Trustees. “Quality sports programs help communities stay healthy, bring people together, and stimulate local economy. This celebration is recognizing the efforts of community volunteers, players and fans nationwide.”

There are other opportunities for communities to participate in celebrating SI’s 50th: