Game Time International brings steroid prevention program to Idaho High Schools

Game Time International, a local non-profit organization, has partnered with Idaho high schools to deliver and implement the ATLAS Program with male high school sport teams.

ATLAS (Athletes Training and Learning to Avoid Steroids) is an evidence-based, award-winning and nationally recognized health promotion and drug prevention program developed by Dr's. Linn Goldberg and Diane Elliot from the Center for Health Promotion Research at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). Through a team-centered format, ATLAS educates young adolescent male athletes about the importance of sports nutrition, strength training, and avoiding performance-enhancing and illicit drugs.

Game Time International representatives were trained by OHSU staff to implement the programs and they are the only trainers for the program in the state of Idaho. Game Time International is working with several schools across the Treasure Valley. “One of our strategies is to find new and innovative ways to help build our community. The ATLAS program helps build leaders and educates young adolescent athletes. We are very excited about this program and the relationship we have built with the ATLAS development team” said Derrick Boles, Founder and Chairman of Game Time International.

ATLAS has been implemented in over 30 states and was investigated with over 3200 student-athletes. In 2004, ATLAS was listed as the model educational program to use in the Anabolic Steroid Control Act. ATLAS decreases new drug and alcohol use by 50% and reduces teen drinking and driving.

The key for Game Time International is that the program builds leadership skills in student athletes. The program is peer taught and coach facilitated. Ten 45-minute educational sessions occur once a week during the sport season. Teams meet together and are divided into small squads with one student serving as the ‘squad leader.’ Game Time International representatives facilitate the program, emphasizing key points.

ATLAS helps high school athletes develop their leadership skills and, as a result, they impact their peers, school and community. Derrick Boles has invested time and energy to bring the program to Idaho. He said, “We are very excited to have developed such a strong partnership with Dr. Goldberg and his team. We believe these skills will strengthen our young athletes and help them make healthy decisions.”

Game Time International staff plan to get certified to train coaches and athletes on how to implement the ATHENA (Athletes Targeting Healthy Exercise and Nutrition Alternatives) Program for young women athletes. ATHENA is the sister program to ATLAS. ATHENA improves sports nutrition, strength training skills and reduces use of body shaping drugs and other harmful behaviors.

Game Time International can train interested coaches or school liaisons to implement the ATLAS program throughout the state of Idaho. If you are interested, please visit www.gametimeintl.com or the ATLAS and ATHENA Program website at www.atlasprogram.com.