UNLV this summer will host the federally funded National Youth Sports Program for economically disadvantaged youngsters ages 10 through 16. The five-week program will take place June 11-July 14.

The program, which is sponsored by the NCAA, provides youngsters with instruction in swimming, tennis, basketball, volleyball, soccer, racquetball, and softball. It also focuses on math and science; strategies intended to prevent alcohol and drug abuse; health and career education; job responsibilities; and higher education. Free lunches and transportation are provided.

Students wishing to participate in this program, which is free of charge, must meet income guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Human Services and must have a physical exam.

Free physicals and registration will take place 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 2 at the Nucleus Community Health Centers of Southern Nevada, 916 W. Owens Ave. Each youngster must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

This is the 31st year UNLV has been involved in the program.

"We are committed to extending a helping hand to our youth," said education professor Porter Troutman Jr., who has served as director of the NYSP project at UNLV for 15 years. "The NYSP motto - 'Walk Tall, Talk Tall, and Stand Tall' - is what we want our young people to do."

The primary goals of the program are to expand opportunities for economically disadvantaged youth in sports instruction, competition, and physical fitness; to assist young people with development of good health practices and good citizenship, as well as exposure to career and educational opportunities; to enable UNLV and its personnel to become more proactive in the community; and to provide employment and on-the-job training in career opportunities.

At UNLV, the program is operated by the College of Education and its department of curriculum and instruction.

For additional information, call Troutman at 895-3369.