2011 Academy Award Winners

Co - Premier Power Player: Is Bowler Vaughn Verfurth

At 2 years old - Vaughan holds the distinction as the Grand Canyon State Games youngest participant in our 19 year history.  Vaughan’s participation was part of a family affair including his 4 year old sister, but Vaughan stole the show.  With his 6 pound ball & 2 handed delivery, he medaled – of course – as the only athlete in his age division.  Congratulations to one dedicated 2 year old –Vaughn Verfurth.

On Pointe wasted no time in truly exhibiting a high level of character both on and off the court . Of special interest is this team's display of citizenship, which was clearly evident when, after one of their games, the entire team lent a hand in helping pick up and dispose of all the trash in the gym at Sunnyslope High School--without anyone even asking them to do so. A Perfect example of what sport CAN & SHOULD BE to all athletes.  Congratulations to On Point!

Female Athlete of the Year representing Track is Barbara Brandt 

Barb did not start the sport of track until after the age of 60.  She basically is self-taught in the sport and turned herself into a Champion.  She accomplished this with an uncommonly strong work ethic and dedication to the sport she loves.  Barbara has won hundreds of medals over her career at the local, State, Regional, National & International levels, including some world rankings.  Barbara is very well respected and admired for her positive attitude and humble approach to her success.  Congratulations to Barbara.

Cody is the sole competitive baton twirler in the State of AZ.  Cody has competed in State, Regional, National & International events.  In 2011 he was also the only competitor from AZ to ever have competed in a World championship & will represent the US again at the World Championships in 2012 in Switzerland.  He won several medals at this year’s games & will win many more this year in his busy schedule of competitions.  Congratulations to Cody

Dianne & Ben are the perfect event coordinator Team.  Their talents complement each other perfectly.  This alone has allowed them to grow Racquetball from a very small unsanctioned event into 2 events per year & one of the most respected & well attended events on the Racquetball Calendar.  In a few short years Racquetball attendance has grown over 200% and continues to expand.  Congratulations to Dianne & Ben. – Job well done!  

Dianne Pratt-Doerschel

Ben Simon

Bob & his wife hosted the largest 1st year competitive event in the history of the Grand Canyon State Games – 345 players in our inaugural Pickleball Championships.  The event was played over 7 days so it instantly became the longest running event we ever hosted.  The event was maliciously planned, promoted & executed.  At the 2011 event players were already asking about the 2012 event.  Congratulations to Bob & Jettye.    

As the title sponsor of the Grand Canyon State Games, ASU has whole –heartily adopted & OPENED their campus to our athletes encompassing a wide variety of competitions.  We contested over 30 separate events in 2011 at ASU & the athletes hope we will offer even more on one of Americas most prestigious campuses.  Some weekends we utilized every available campus venue.  A Heartfelt thanks to the “Team” at ASU.  

Mike selflessly has committed all the Gym space available on the Salt River Reservation to our competitors several times per year for the past several years.  Mike hosted our Baseball, Basketball, & Volleyball events all the while running the Little League Baseball competition as our commissioner.  Quite a feat!    This is a perfect example of a Reservation Recreation Program & a non-profit organization working together to make several events happen for thousands of amateur athletes regardless of age or ability.  Congratulations Mike!

Sponsors of the Year: Arizona Office Technologies.

AOT has exhibited unconditional loyalty above and beyond the call of duty.  They have “had our back” on many occasions.  Truly pillars of strength as world class corporate citizens. We express our heartfelt gratitude.  A Special Thanks to Jaime Lejia!

Volunteers of the Year: Go to Dr. Richard Reid and Evan Wong. 

Dr. Reid has been an avid supporter of the Games acting as a Basketball Site Supervisor for many years. His devotion has also spread to the sponsorship realm where he has not only contributed as a sponsor himself but has attracted potential new sponsors for the Games.  We are grateful for his loyalty, positive attitude, and strong leadership skills ~ Thank you Dr. Reid.  Evan Wong began his volunteer time as an intern.  He has prolonged his dedication to the Games with volunteering time at both sporting events and office support. His savvy computer schools and personable mannerisms have made him a true asset to the Games.  Congratulations Evan!

Dr. Richard Reid

Evan Wong