Team Darfur (Washington, DC) is an international nonprofit coalition of Olympic and professional athletes who are committed to raising awareness about and bringing an end to the crisis in Darfur, Sudan. In a campaign leading up to the 2008 Summer Olympic games in Beijing, China, Team Darfur is not calling for an Olympic boycott … but encouraging the countries around the world to help the men, women and children who have been affected by the genocide crisis in Darfur.

Team Darfur was co-founded by Olympic gold medalist speed skater, Joey Cheek, and UCLA water polo player Brad Geiner. Joey raised over $1-million in 2006 when he announced he would donate his medal bonuses to relief efforts in Darfur. Brad came up with the idea of raising funds for the cause, including creating a symbol of support in Team Darfur sweatbands.

Athletes have joined Team Darfur from countries such as Angola, Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Barbados, Benin, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, India, Israel, Kenya, Mexico, Netherlands, Nigeria, Puerto Rico, Russia, Slovenia, South Africa, UK and many others.

A few of the U.S. athletes who have joined Team Darfur include Hayley Peirsol (swimming), Jessica Mendoza (softball), Jenny Finch Daigle (softball), John Naber (swimming), Jeremy Holm (bobsled), Maria Cruz Garcia (speedskating), and Lynn Hill (rock climbing).

Information on attending Darfur events, buying sweatbands and other gear, signing a pledge, donating and other program news is available on their website.