Poland in US

On Thursday, 23.03.23, we hosted an absolutely wonderful evening at the Residence of the Polish Ambassador, celebrating the reception for Polish Heritage Night! We had several distinguished guests, and NBA stars and legends present! We opened the night with captivating remarks from Polish Ambassador Marek Magierowski, and then moved along viewing a video clip from Polish President Andrzej Duda, recognizing the importance of Polish Heritage Night and what this event does for strengthening the bonds of the Polish community, and the wide potential this cultural exchange has in the United States of America. 

Words of appreciation were then featured from Ukrainian youth who are student athletes in schools run by former Polish NBA star, Marcin Gortat, and his foundation. 'Fundacja Marcina Gortata MG13", in Poland. Marcin Gortat and his team were quick in their response of assisting Ukrainian refugees, following the unprovoked & unjustified Russian invasion of Ukraine. 

Then, a warm fireside chat between Marcin Gortat, Kristaps Porzingis, and Washington Wizards GM Thomas Sheppard, which moderated by NBC reporter Dan De Luce on how sports help youth overcome limitations & build strong character. Mr. Sheppard also highlighted how international players represent their countries in the NB and why it’s critical.

Following this riveting discussion, it was an absolute pleasure to see the Polish Ambassador award Washington_Wizards GM Thomas Sheppard, with the “Amicus Poloniae” Award (A Friend Of Poland) for his contributions to promoting Poland in the United States of America. Kudos to you sir!

We then concluded our program with several remarks from Mr. Sheppard on the significance of receiving such an important reward and from Mr. Jan Edmund Kowalski from the Polish Ministry of Culture and National Heritage (Ministerstwo Kultury i Dziedzictwa Nardowego; MKiDN) about the current reconstruction project of the Saxon Palace, which was destroyed during WWII.

When the program wrapped up, guests were able to partake in two interactive stations featured at the reception! Some were able to workout their basketball skills, while others virtually went to Poland and view the beauty of various hallmark Polish sites and cities! We thank all who came to the reception! 

Then the following night, on 24.03.23, the Washington Wizards with Assistant Coach Marcin Gortat faced off against the San Antonio Spurs, who featured Jeremy Sochan, a young, up and coming talent in the NBA. Two Polish GROM veterans were recongized for their lengthy service prior to tipoff, and then the Wizards and Gortat were able to win the game against the Spurs, 136-124. They spoke to the crowd of fans after the game to talk about playing in the NBA, and Polish identity and what it means in everyday life and in the NBA. We were also graced by Polish midfield Mateusz Klich, who has recently made D.C. his home, signing a two year deal with MLS side, D.C. United!