UNICEF People
Goodwill Ambassador Roger Federer’s ‘Feder-bear’ makes its debut
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| © ATP |
| UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and tennis champion Roger Federer poses with his plush toy likeness, the 'Feder-bear'. |
By Richard Zimmerman
NEW YORK, USA, 8 September 2006 – With his bid for a third consecutive U.S. Open championship in full swing, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Roger Federer has served up an ace for children everywhere. ATP, governing body of professional tennis, has announced that the ‘Feder-bear’ Beanie Baby® will be available for purchase this holiday season.
Proceeds from the sale of each bear will benefit the ACE (Assisting Children Everywhere) programme, a global partnership between the ATP and UNICEF harnessing the power of tennis to help ensure the health, education and protection of children around the world.
Mr. Federer, who is already considered to be one of the all-time greats of tennis, is known for his power and finesse on the court, as well as his grace and honour off the court.
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| © ATP |
| The reverse side of the 'Feder-bear', whose sales will benefit the ACE programme, a global partnership between UNICEF and professional tennis. |
Commitment to children
As the top player on the ATP circuit, he has been proactive in leading charity efforts.
In 2003, he established the Roger Federer Foundation to fund projects benefiting disadvantaged children, primarily in South Africa where his mother was raised, and to promote sports for young people. In 2005, he joined UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan and the Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on Sport for Development and Peace, Adolph Ogi, in launching the International Year of Sport and Physical Education.
Following the devastating tsunami of December 2004, Mr. Federer instigated several fundraising initiatives, including the ATP All-Star Rally for Relief. The unique exhibition event, which benefited UNICEF, featured an unprecedented show of support from the top men’s and women’s tennis players. The event also launched the ACE partnership.
With the Feder-bear, fans can take home a plush toy teddy bear version of this top-ranked tennis player with a proven commitment to the world’s children.
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Related links
Sign up to get your own Feder-bear
(external site, opens in a new window)
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