**Eagles Star Saquon Barkley Declines Trump’s Sports Council Invitation**
Saquon Barkley, the standout running back for the Philadelphia Eagles, has confirmed that he will not be joining President Donald Trump’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition. Barkley made this announcement during a training camp press conference on Monday.
On July 31, Trump signed an executive order to reestablish the council and the Presidential Fitness Test, aiming to combat the growing concerns over declining health and physical fitness in America. The initiative seeks to celebrate the nation’s sports and fitness traditions through a proven approach.
During the signing event, Trump was joined by several prominent athletes, including NFL legends like Lawrence Taylor and Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker. In the announcement, Trump listed Barkley among the council members, which also includes NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, Nick Bosa of the San Francisco 49ers, and Tua Tagovailoa of the Miami Dolphins.
However, Barkley clarified his position when asked about the council. “A couple of months ago, it was brought to my team about the council, so I’m not really too familiar with it,” he stated, as reported by NBC Philadelphia. “I felt like I’m gonna be super busy, so me and my family thought it was probably in best interest to not accept that. I was definitely a little shocked when my name was mentioned, but I appreciate it.”
The signing event also featured other sports figures, including WWE’s Paul “Triple H” Levesque, LPGA legend Annika Sorenstam, and LIV Golf star Bryson DeChambeau, who will chair the council. Vice President JD Vance, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, and Education Secretary Linda McMahon were also in attendance.
DeChambeau emphasized the council’s mission, stating, “We have an opportunity at being the 70th anniversary of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition, to literally change the fabric of kids’ lives.” The council’s first initiative will focus on reviving the Presidential Fitness Test and establishing guidelines to foster community engagement in fitness.
Originally founded in 1956 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, the President’s Council on Youth Fitness aimed to promote physical fitness among American youth. The Presidential Physical Fitness Award was introduced in 1966 by President Lyndon B. Johnson. The fitness test, which included running, sit-ups, pull-ups, and a sit-and-reach test, was discontinued by President Barack Obama, who replaced it with the Presidential Youth Fitness Program.
As the council moves forward, it will play a crucial role in advising and recommending actions to enhance the fitness goals of American youth.
**FAQ**
**Q: Why did Saquon Barkley decline the invitation to the council?**
A: Barkley cited his busy schedule and family considerations as reasons for not accepting the invitation, expressing surprise at being mentioned as a council member.
