GAME ON!: Microsoft teams up with Real Madrid Foundation, Central Washington University

Published 11:59 am Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Microsoft Corp. is teaming up with the world-renowned Real Madrid Foundation and Central Washington University on a new youth innovation and leadership program called GAME ON! The program — the first of its kind on the West Coast — combines computer training with soccer workshops to promote youth leadership and computer coding skills.

GAME ON! will be unveiled March 29 in the Wellington Event Center at Central. Local schools participating in the pilot program include Stanton Academy and Eisenhower High School of Yakima.

According to a press release, the Real Madrid Foundation’s global sports schools teach students leadership values through sport, including teamwork, self-control and respect. The foundation will provide curriculum and training for students’ leadership experience after school.

Microsoft’s YouthSpark initiative prepares students with the computational-thinking and problem-solving skills necessary for success in the digital world. Microsoft will provide content and resources, both original and by partners such as Code.org, enabling students to have their first programming experience.

Central’s Center for Leadership and Community Engagement will coordinate the program, ensuring coaching is based on the Real Madrid Foundation’s leadership development methods and ensuring the skilled delivery of YouthSpark curriculum.