My friends and family chuckled when I was hired as USATH's Southeast Regional Director. Why? Simple, they knew I'd love it! Like I told my boss Steve Pastorino, "Working at USATH will be like working in a candy shop, and everyone knows that I like candy!" After 12 years as an executive, I'm busier than ever, and busier than I ever expected! Most people are curious about what a Regional Director does. Once I explain the work, I get asked "What's the best part of the job?" Well, naturally most think that my answer will relate to being part of the Olympic movement, going to the Olympic Training Center, going to tournaments, leading clinics, marketing the sport in my region, building my Region's Board, developing programs in schools, helping recruit elite athletes, finding sponsors, etc. For me, it's none of the above. Yes, I enjoy all of it and its variety but THE ultimate best part of my job is seeing the smile on a kid's face when he/she throws their first handball! As cheesy as it sounds, it's priceless and I get the biggest thrill every single time! To see a kid experience that total release of energy, the joy of incorporating what is so natural as running, jumping, then to doing what is typically disallowed: throwing a ball with 100 percent force is great! Typically the youngster will look at me with disbelief. Most ask "Am I allowed to do that, was that ok?" I answer "Yes, of course," and the final comment is "That is SOOOOOOOOO cool!" And at that point, I know that one more kid loves handball. I have done my job; well at least the beginning of it!

Every day I get to help breed a new love for our sport and everyday I urge more people to come out and experience what we, Regional Directors, experience. One thing I can guarantee is if you ask me "How can I help?" Well, be prepared for a quick answer! Right now, it's GAME ON for our Grassroots Revolution. All it takes is to give one precious hour of your time. If you can do this, then we've got some amazing and rewarding work for you!

In the spotlight this month in the Southeast are Jim Thome, Gabi Peres and Petra Marsh who will be teaching the sport to newbie kids and adults at the Palm Beach Gardens Rec Center! This amazing trio has a gazillion years of handball experience and they will lead local athletes during 5 weekends of handball. They are psyched and I'm thrilled to coordinate and provide the guidance for these events.

So, who's ready to see the next million dollar smile? America's kids are waiting and we need you to come out and help introduce the greatest sport in the world!