Tony Sanneh, who played pro soccer and in the World Cup for the U.S. Men’s National Team, is a lifelong sports and fitness advocate. As founder of The Sanneh Foundation, he incorporates the Fit Kids program and other physical activities into the organization’s efforts to improve lives in the communities his foundation serves.
Tony explains further in this Fit Kids Conversation.
Highlights include:
:54 Tony describes his fitness journey from childhood onward, fueled by a trip to visit family in The Gambia, West Africa.
1:48 “You don’t want to be working out. You want to be playing.”
2:41 How Tony chose soccer — “the beautiful game” — over other sports, because of the sense of community soccer offered.
3:35 Reflections on the social-emotional learning effects of sports and fitness.
5:00 An explanation of The Sanneh Foundation’s programs and their impact.
7:54 How movement and fitness activities are the “bait” to bring kids into the rest of The Sanneh Foundation’s offerings.
10:14 How his community has embraced the Fit Kids program as seen in smiles from kids and parents alike.
11:35 Tony Sanneh has a pickleball jones, and his skills transfer to a tennis rivalry with famed restaurateur David Fhima.
12:44 Tony reflects on his soccer career and how its rewards compare to his current career.
15:14 How The Sanneh Foundation creates a diverse and inclusive community for immigrants and U.S.-born residents from all socio-economic backgrounds.