The following is a client testimonial from the 2025 United World Games Tour. If you are interested in applying to travel with SAWUSA, get your application completed below.
A Mom and Son Perspective:
When I received the email from Student Athlete World (SAWUSA) about the United World Games in Austria, it felt like a far-off dream. The process of getting Tarik here was an adventure. As a mom, I helped him prepare interviews, craft statements, reach out to coaches for recommendation letters, and organize highlight videos. These steps weren’t just about basketball, they were life lessons in communication, responsibility, and taking initiative.
“Mom, I didn’t know I’d have to have an interview, talk to coaches and prepare like this,” Tarik said one afternoon, nervously laughing. “It felt kind of serious, but I think I got it.”
From Tarik’s perspective, the preparation was a mix of excitement and nerves. “I never realized there was so much behind the scenes,” he admitted. “I kept thinking, ‘Is this really worth it?’ But every call, every email, every practice taught me that effort really pays off.”
The trip itself was incredible. Austria’s beauty, the welcoming celebration, and the organized schedule made everything feel smooth and exciting. From the opening ceremony, where hundreds of athletes representing dozens of countries filled the stands, to the official greeting: “Welcome to the United World Games, welcome to Klagenfurt!”—every moment elevated the experience.
“It felt like the Olympics!” Tarik exclaimed. “The fireworks, the cheering, seeing all the countries—it was amazing. I can’t believe I only started playing basketball in February 2023. To be here, representing my country and winning the gold medal, is a dream come true.”
Watching him, I was transported back to the stories I grew up hearing about my father Mario Leandre, representing Haiti in the 1974 Soccer World Cup in Germany. Since then, Haiti hasn’t returned to the men’s World Cup. And here is my son, carrying a little piece of Haiti in his blood, following a path of discipline, hard work, and leadership—but representing the U.S. instead. I felt pride and admiration all at once.
Tarik’s reflections highlighted the personal growth he experienced beyond basketball: “I’ve learned so much about teamwork, leadership, and fair play. And honestly, I’ve learned a lot about myself—how to focus, how to support my teammates, and how to handle pressure.”
One unforgettable moment for me as a mom was seeing Tarik sing at karaoke, something I would never have pictured him doing. Surrounded by cheering peers and teammates, his laughter and joy lit up the stage. “I didn’t think I’d sing in front of everyone,” he laughed. “But it felt fun, and it made me realize how important it is to enjoy every moment, not just the games.”
Despite being the only player from Jacksonville, Florida, Tarik bonded immediately with his teammates. “Making friends from different part of the US and countries was one of my favorite parts,” he said. “We learned so much from each other, on and off the court. Some of these friendships are going to last forever.”
Winning the gold medal was a milestone he will never forget. “Bringing it home as a basketball student-athlete representing the U.S. showed me that hard work, discipline, and focus really take you places. It opened my eyes to the future and how big the world really is.”
As a mom I could see the larger impact of this experience. Beyond sports, it reinforced the value of preparation, mentorship, and taking initiative. I watched Tarik navigate cultural immersion, celebrate victories, share laughter, and push himself in new ways. These were lessons that shaped not just an athlete, but a young person ready to embrace life.
The United World Games gave Tarik the chance to experience the world, make lasting friendships, and grow into a leader. “Starting late doesn’t mean starting small,” he reflected. “If you work hard, stay focused, and listen to guidance, you really can achieve amazing things.”
As a mom, I am proud of the genuine young man he is becoming—carrying forward the legacy of his grandfather while creating his own story. This trip, from preparation to closing ceremonies, was more than basketball—it was life, lessons, and growth. We will carry these memories forever, inspired to keep striving, learning, and embracing all the adventures life offers.
We are deeply grateful to SAWUSA and the entire United World Games team for their incredible organization, support, and dedication, which made this experience seamless, memorable, and inspiring for all the players and families.
Tarik’s final question? “Are we going again next summer?
By Myriam Joseph and Tarik Auguste