Inspired by ICELAND

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In 2016, Iceland defeated England in the European Soccer Championships. This turned the world's attention to Iceland to learn the secret of their success. They had built indoor sports facilities  & educated coaches working with youth athletes. Then with Icelandic "duglegur" they were able to achieve the impossible.

Watch COPA90 Stories video here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZ6KpxURmks

Iceland's international soccer success was a byproduct of the Youth in Iceland initiative to reduce teen substance abuse. In 2000, Iceland had the worst rate in Europe but improved to the best rate in Europe over the next 13 years, and continues to maintain this low substance abuse rate. 

Read The Atlantic article here:

https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2017/01/teens-drugs-iceland/513668/

Several Mat-Su organizations became interested in this work in Iceland and received a grant funding for implementing international health models locally. These leaders have done extensive research by traveling to Iceland and bringing experts to Alaska to educate the local leadership. 

A critical aspect of implementation is the development of infrastructure and transportation. Work has begun on the capital project, which will house a full-size turf, sport courts, and multi-purpose spaces. It will house youth club offices and serve as a transportation hub of the Mat-Su valley.