AAU (Amateur Athletic Union)

The Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) is an organization in the United States that promotes and organizes amateur sports competitions for athletes of all ages. Founded in 1888, the AAU provides a platform for athletes to compete at local, regional, and national levels in various sports, including basketball, volleyball, and swimming. It focuses on youth sports development, aiming to instill discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship. The AAU also sets standards for competition and conducts national championships, fostering athletic growth and opportunities for aspiring athletes outside of school and college sports systems.