(PHOENIX, Ariz., Sept. 21, 2004) - Two Phoenix College therapeutic massage graduates tested their skills in Athens, Greece when they served as medical volunteers at the Aquatics Center during the Olympic pre-game season. Husband and wife duo, Andrew and Kathy Panagopoulos, spent two-weeks working with the world's fastest swimmers and the most precise divers as the athletes finalized and perfected their skills before the international games.

Although the couple only spent two weeks with the athletes at the aquatic center, they had prepared for this endeavor for more than two years. From filling out the application packet to interviewing with the Olympic committee, the couple eagerly awaited the committee's final decision. After two years of preparation, it was not until May of 2004 when they finally received their invitation to Athens. At that time, they only had 10 days to make their decision and save for travel expenses.

After a number of fundraisers and thoughtful donations, Andrew and Kathy were on their way to Greece. Ironically, finding a place to stay was easy enough, considering that Andrew's parents live in Athens. Lodging was not an obstacle.

"This was a great honor," said Andrew. "Just to be there with my family and to see the world's finest athletes was absolutely amazing. To be in this festive atmosphere with my family and friends was so wonderful."

Beginning at 8:30 a.m., the couple would travel throughout the city in their colorful Olympic blue and white uniforms, to their destination - the Aquatics Center. Andrew and Kathy soon discovered within the first days of their assignment that it was not uncommon to see some of the world's top competitors sitting next to them on the tram as they ventured to and from work.

"It truly is difficult to express the unique spirit of it all," said Kathy. "We would be walking or taking public transportation and next to us would be the U.S. gymnastic team or Michael Phelps. It doesn't get much better than that!"

In addition to their Olympic celebrity sightings, they also worked with Greek gold medalists, Nikolaos Siranidis and Thomas Bimis.

"Really, this was just an awesome experience and it was great to do this together," said Andrew.

Now back in Phoenix, the couple works on their plans for the grand opening of their new business: TEAM Approach - Therapeutic Enhancement and Massage. The facility is scheduled to open at the end of the year.

For more information on TEAM Approach: Therapeutic Enhancement and Massage, please call (602) 363-2285. For more information on Phoenix College massage therapy classes, please call (602) 285-7649

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