USC : Recreation Program to Start Wednesday

USC is offering a free summer sports program for more than 400 local youths between 10 and 16 years old.

The National Youth Sports Program, now in its 27th year, starts Wednesday and will run weekdays for six weeks. Participants must have proof of a recent medical examination and are selected on a first-come, first-served basis.

The program offers sports instruction, field trips and educational seminars covering topics such as nutrition, HIV/AIDS prevention, drug and alcohol awareness, computers, career planning, and leadership development.

The effort is a joint partnership developed and operated by the federal government, the National Collegiate Athletic Assn. and several colleges and universities.

Information: (213) 740-5127.