Power Player Awards 2008

The 2008 Premier Power Player Award

The Power Player award is given to select individuals who demonstrate exceptional character and sportsmanship as a participant in the Grand Canyon State Games throughout the year. Select athletes are chosen who best display extraordinary character as defined by the six pillars of Character - - Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship. The Premier Power Player is chosen from among all the individual sport winners in all the competitions held in 2008 during Grand Canyon State Games.
 
The 2008 Grand Canyon State Games Premier Power Player Award Winner is 3 year old Sage Gunderson from the sport of BMX bike racing Sage has raced Big Wheels for about a year and is a champion cheerleader for her family who all race at the Black mountain BMX track in Phoenix. She was chosen for this award for her ability to overcome extreme adversity. On November 13, 2007, she was diagnosed with Leukemia with the prognosis that she had 72 hours to live. She started treatment two days later, has been in and out of the hospital ever since. Things are positive and she is doing great and baring any complications or setbacks she will finish her daily chemo treatments in January 2010! Congratulations to a very deserving winner.

Lori Piestewa National Native American Games

Baseball

Red Sox

The 2008 Lori Piestewa National Native American Games power Player Award Winner from Base is the Red Sox Baseball team. The team displayed good sportsmanship and a positive attitude throughout the tournament. They displayed respect for the officials and never questioned ruling on the field. They are examples of the 6 pillars’ of character even at a young age.

Basketball

Chi'hootso Wolfpack

The Basketball Power Player Award during the Lori Piestewa National Native
American Games was presented to the Chi'hootso Wolfpack. Despite playing
nearly every other hour on their path to the Championship game, this team
continued to display dedication, energy and a decorum that was consistently
unrivaled. The players were always respectful and composed in demeanor and
their sportsmanship set the benchmark for other teams throughout the
weekend. Congratulations!

Basketball

Lady Magic

The 2008 Lori Piestewa National Native American Games Power Player Award
Winners are the Lady Magic Basketball Team. The team exhibited good
sportsmanship throughout the tournament; they even cheered other teams on
when not playing. The team was very poised during play and displayed
respect for referees, games officials and other athletes. Congratulations
to the Lady Magic Basketball team and their coaches.

Basketball

Meskwaki Nation

In the Junior Boys Division of Basketball in the 2008 Lori Piestewa National Native American Games, the Power Player Award was prented to the Meskwaki Nation team from Tama , Iowa . The team maintained a pleasant attitude and a true spirit of sportsmanship by all its players during their first experience in the Lori Piestewa Games. They exhibited courteousness to Games staff as well as to players from opposing teams in each of their games through the tournament in all the positive and negative adventures they encountered.

Basketball

Lil Wolverines

The 2008 Power Player Award Winners in the Lori Piestewa National Native American Games Basketball event is the Lil Wolverines Boys and Girls Teams from Sanders Arizona. Both teams of these Navajo teams play in tournaments all over the southwestern US. Both teams showed excellent sportsmanship and is led by the example set by Coach Leland James. Both teams were continually encouraging other players to play their best during the tournament. A great example of the seven pillars of character displayed by the Girls and the boys teams during the competition.

Cross Country

Robert Abeyta

The 2008 Power Player Award winner in the Lori Piestewa National Native American Games in the Cross Country Competition was Robert Abeyta. Robert was the defending Champion in the Youth division in the Cross Country competition and was a 3 sport athlete in the Lori Piestewa Games by playing basketball as well. Robert has always been an over-achiever and he displayed many of the six pillars of character throughout both competitions during the National Native American Games weekend.

Softball

City of Fountain Hills Recreation Dept. Grounds crew

The 2008 Lori Piestewa National Native American Games Award winner for the sport of Softball is the City of Fountain Hills Recreation Dept. Grounds crew. The crew led by Anjelica Giardino worked tirelessly to provide a safe & beautiful setting for the Softball players & Little Baseball players to compete. The work crew was a perfect example of teamwork as they moved from field to field and site to site to accomplish their goal and keep the games on time throughout the weekend. Congratulations to the City of Fountain Hills Recreation Department.

Track and Field

Hugh Morrison

The 2008 Power Player Award Winner for the sport of Track & Field for the Lori Piestewa National Native American Games is Hugh Morrison. On a National level, Mr. Morrison is a long time, highly respected Track official. He leads by example and is a role model for athletes of all ages and abilities. He has volunteered his time for numerous competitions over the years including the National Native American Games for the past four years. Even though Hugh is not Native American, he feels it important to lend his expertise to insure the quality of competition for all athletes regardless of background.

Volleyball

Mike Mahon

The 2008 Lori Piestewa Power Player Award Winner is Mr. Mike Mahon, the AD at Notre Dame Prep High School in Scottsdale . Mike is the long time athletic Director at Notre Dame HS and has been instrumental in the current athletic success at the school. Mike not only provided the facilities for the Native American Volleyball competition but ran the concession stand and assisted in set-up/tear-down and clean-up at the completion. Mike is very dedicated to each and every competition held at Notre Dame Prep and we are lucky to have Mike and Notre Dame Prep as part of the Native American Games.

Summer Games

Arm Wrestling

Michael Crosby

The 2008 International Summer Games Power Player Award Winner for Arm Wrestling was presented to Michael Crosby. Michael displayed good sportsmanship throughout the tournament. He was gracious whether winning or losing. Michael displayed many of the 6 pillars of character during the competition and was the perfect choice as the Power Player Award Winner in Arm Wrestling.

Badminton

Asok Boopathy and Miki Honda

The 2008 Badminton Power Player Award winner was awarded to a couple, Asok Boopathy and Miki Honda, who have participated in the GCSGs badminton since the beginning of the State Games in 1993. They are the perfect examples of sportsmanship while being top players - they live the character described by the Power Player Award. They also have won numerous GCSG badminton titles in singles, doubles and mixed doubles over the years. This year Miki won the "triple crown" - Open Women's Singles, Women's Doubles (with Yukari Katayama- the top women's player from Tucson who is a former national team member from Japan), and Open Mixed Doubles with her husband,
Asok (who is originally from Malaysia).

Baseball

Cobra Team

The 2008 International Summer Games Power Player Award in Baseball goes to the Cobra Baseball team from Laveen, AZ. This team exemplified what it means to play with sportsmanship. The Cobra’s were put together only days before the tournament began; however, even with scoring just one run, they played their hearts out and to the best of their ability. They were always positive with each other and with the opposing teams during the entire tournament. I would like to thank all the teams for participating and making this tournament the best it could be.

Baton Twirling

Julie Fix

The 2008 Summer Games Power Player Award winner in the sport of Baton Twirling is Julie Fix. Julie began twirling at 10 years old. She is 18 years old and twirled for Coconino High School and her twirling team is the Movement in Flagstaff , Arizona . She is always encouraging others to perform to their potential and is an excellent role model for young twirlers.

Basketball
Team Fuerza

2008 Power Player Award winners in Summer Games Basketball is Team Fuerza.  This team embodied the spirit for which the Power Player Award was created.  Coaches, parents and players alike handled themselves with professionalism from beginning to end.  Our hopes are they would attend the State Games of the West in Colorado Spring in July as they would be a fine ambassador for Arizona and the Grand Canyon State Games. Congratulations to the entire Fuerza organization for this well deserved award. 

BMX
Sage Gunderson

The 2008 Power Player Award winner in BMX Bike Racing is three year old Sage Gunderson. Sage has raced Big Wheels for about a year and is a champion cheerleader for her family who all race at our track. She was chosen for this award for her ability to overcome extreme adversity. On November 13, 2007, she was diagnosed with Leukemia with a prognosis was she had 72 hours to live. She started treatment two days later, has been in and out of the hospital ever since. But we thank God that things are positive and she is doing great and baring any complications or setbacks she will finish her daily chemo treatments in January 2010! Congratulations to a very deserving winner.

Diving
Barb Nejman

The 2008 Summer Games Power Player Award was presented to Mrs. Barb Nejman in the sport of Diving. Barb is a selfless volunteer and leads by example. She donates countless hours to the sport she teaches, coaches, organizes and has participated in for many years all over the country. Her involvement spans many decades and has touched too many lives to count. Congratulations to someone who not only teaches the 6 pillars of character in the classroom but lives it in her daily life.

Dodgeball

Eric Jones

The 2008 Power Player award winner in Dodgeball is Eric Jones, a new resident to Tucson brings with him from California a dedication to the Dodgeball community that is rare in any sport. Eric has been playing dodgeball for 3 years and has worked tirelessly to endorse the sport of Dodgeball. Whether it's handing out cards, running leagues, refereeing or driving hundreds of miles to tournaments, Eric does what it takes to help Dodgeball grow out of its adolescence as a competitive sport. His attitude and demeanor contribute to every event he participates in and for the last three State Games' events his presence has been welcome and appreciated by the GCSG Dodgeball Staff.

Flag Football

Robert Stuart

The 2008 Fulton Homes International Summer Games Power Player winner is Robert Stuart. Robert exemplified what is good in sports throughout the GCSG summer tournament. Although Robert's team didn't play until the late afternoon, he was one of the first players to the field. With his two daughters in tow he assisted in set up, and his daughters assisted by providing water to the players. As if that wasn't enough during the early games there was an injury to a player on a different team, inspite of his impending games and the 110 degree heat Robert filled in and assisted the team. Sports are of course about trying to win and although that is not the reason Robert won the award, it is note worthy that his team succeeded in winning the gold metal in the Top Gun Division.

Golf

The 2008 Power Player Award for the sport of Golf was presented for the 1st time ever to the entire field of athletes in a particular sport. All the golfers in the Grand Canyon State Games were courteous and a pleasure to be around during play. They all displayed good sportsmanship and brought a positive attitude to the competition. Also for the first time 100% of the registered players showed up to play in the competition from all over the State of Arizona . Congratulations to all Golfers.

Gymnastics
Wendy Jenkins

Wendy Jenkins from Phoenix , AZ is the Power Player Award Winner for Gymnastics at the 2008 Grand Canyon State Summer Games. This was Wendy's first ever competition, which normally wouldn't be that big a deal except that Wendy is in her mid-30s and is a mother of 2 children. Not only has she had to battle questioning looks and occasional ridicule at her training gym, but then to don a leotard and compete for the first time with girls that are typically 7-10 years old; talk about courage! Through it all, Wendy has maintained her positive outlook and an infectious smile that continues to win over all who meet her. Congratulations Wendy!

Karate

Arielle Rabino

The 2008 Winter Games Power Player winner in Karate is Arielle Rabino. Arielle has been training in Karate for 6 years and was just promoted to blue belt this May of 2008 by Shihan Kunio Murayama. Arielle has traveled to Japan , Canada and Mexico to represent the USA and knows how important it is have a positive attitude,good sportsmanship and respect for others.

Outdoor Volleyball
LJ Robinson

The 2008 outdoor volleyball Summer Games Power Player award winner is LJ Robinson. LJ is dedicated and energetic player and her team "Down & Dirty" won the Co-ed A division. LJ is always very upbeat and encouraging to both her team and her opponents. LJ also went out of her way contacting players and single handedly was able to put together 4 teams for the tournament in both the A and B division, one of which took the gold in the B division. Thanks to LJ's hard work, dedication, and attitude our event was a great success.

Racquetball

Fred Lantiqua

The 2008 Summer Games Power Player Award for Racquetball was presented
to Fred Lantiqua. Fred is an avid racquetball player and has been playing
for 30 years. Fred has placed 2nd & 4th at National Doubles competitions.
He is a great ambassador for the sport at the local and the National levels
and an ideal choice for the Power Player Award.

Shooting

Peter Jonasson

The 2008 Summer Games POWER PLAYER AWARD was given to Peter Jonasson. Peter Jonasson is 13 years old and is from Mesa AZ. He always has a big smile and positive attitude, and works hard for his goals at home and school. Peter helps the others when he can and is always fun to have around, he is an excellent role model to young shooting athletes. We are proud to present the Power Player Award to Peter.

Soccer - Youth

Team Italia

The 2008 International Summer Games Power Player award was presented to
team Italia. They are not only good athletes but very gracious whether
wining or losing. They were very respectful of officials and other teams as
well. They are very good representatives of the sport of soccer and role
models to other young players.

Squash

Gordon Silverman

The 2008 Summer Games squash Power Play award goes to Keegan Jackson for showing true spirit of the State Games. Once a reluctant player Keegan has over the last several weeks, helped to introduce new players to the game by giving up his free time and playing with novice women and juniors. During the tournament he refereed for the first time ever and so enjoyed it. He Volunteered to referee as many matches as possible and thus earning him the Power Player award.

Synchronized Swimming

Lorette Haynes and Becky Thompson

The 2008 Power Player Award for Synchronized Swimming’s went to Lorette Haynes and Becky Thompson. Lorette has been instrumental in establishing the City of Mesa’s summer synchronized swimming program.  Lorette has participated as an athlete and a coach in Grand Canyon State Games since synchronized swimming joined the games.  Lorette symbolizes the true devotion and love of the sport and her love for children.  Becky has been instrumental in starting the synchronized swimming Team for the City of Tempe and currently is working to start a program with the City of Apache Junction.  Becky was an athlete in the very first Grand Canyon State Games synchronized swimming event and has been apart of the Games ever since, now as a Commissioner for the Games.  Becky loves the sport and loves helping young girls work towards the dreams she had as a young swimmer. Lorette and Becky both give to the sport volunteering their time to support the City of Mesa and to Grand Canyon State Games.  These two individuals have been instrumental in the growth of our sport and in sharing their love and passion with numerous young girls.

Table Tennis

Randy Rainbolt

Randy Rainbolt, a dedicated table tennis player, plays in many tournaments in the Phoenix area. Win or lose, Randy displays great sportsmanship before, during, and after every match. He is respectful of the sport, and to the people that play the sport. Randy is a hard working guy on and off the table tennis court.

Tennis
Bryana Edgell

The 2008 Tennis Power Player Award was presented to Bryana Edgell of Peoria . The 17 year old player displayed great sportsmen throughout the Summer Games tournament. She was gracious in winning and losing. She displayed many of the 6 pillars of character during the competition. Bryana was also a good role model for the younger players. Congratulations to Bryana.

Track and Field

Mark Landa

The Power Player award is given to select individuals who demonstrate exceptional character and sportsmanship as a participant in the Grand Canyon State Games. Select athletes who display extraordinary character as defined by the six pillars of Character - - Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship will be identified by Games officials for consideration. The 2008 International Summer Games Power Player Award in the sport of Adult Track & Field is dedicated to decorated amateur track athlete Mr. Roy Clark. The recipient of this prestigious award for the 2008 International Summer Games is Mark Landa.

Mark holds the 35-39 Discus, Hammer, Wt. and Superwt age group records for Arizona . His biggest highlight in his Master's career is achieving a LIFETIME PR in the hammer of 57.55M! Also finally turning 35 and having the chance to finally break a couple of American records! Track allows Mark to re-live his youth and gives him a focus to maintain a healthy life style! Mark is always encouraging other athletes to do their best with his positive attitude and he shows a total respect for his sport and games officials. He has participated in Track & Field for over twenty years.

Wiffleball

Mickey Hyde

The 2008 Wiffle Ball Summer Games Power Player Award Winner traveled over 2,500 miles from LeRoy , NY to participate in the tournament. Mickey Hyde of the Arizona Vipers arrived to the 111 degree heat empty handed but went home with plenty of medals and trophies. Mickey took home the bronze medal for the homerun derby, silver medal with the Arizona Vipers for the tournament, and the Power Player award for his on and off the field characteristics. Mickey displayed great sportsmanship whether winning or losing.

Wrestling

Diana Miranda

The 2008 power player award for wrestling goes to Diana Miranda is recognized in Sonora and all Mexico alike as an outstanding athlete, in addition to being part of the National team, Diana shares her experiences and skill in the support of the children of her state in the development of wrestling. She fights with tenacity, ability and sportsmanship in each one of her competitions in which it participates.  She is a great example to younger competitors.  She is also 6 times national youth champion & 5 times national senior champion.  

Adventure Racing

Derrick Beracy

In Adventure Racing, our Power Player Award winner in 2008 is Derrick Beracy. Derrick is a first time Adventure Racer, and member of team "Road Rash". On March 29th, while racing, Derrick pulled his team aside in order to aid other teams with whom they were competing on a number of occasions. The first found a team and their boat pinned up against trees in a whitewater section of the Verde River which Derrick helped get un-stuck. The second instance had Derrick stopping to aid a team that was running low on water while mountain biking, and then again in order to help a team with a flat tire. Derrick did this at the expense of his own finish time, and demonstrated the "Six pillars of character" to the maximum in Adventure Racing.

Archery, 3D

Steve Gasca

The Power Player Award Winner in 3D Archery is Steve Gasca. Steve is very helpful and always willing to pitch-in to make things run smooth. Steve is always available to help any Archer improve and is a great ambassador for the sport of Archery. Steve is great role model to younger Archery athletes and is a perfect choice as the Power Player Winner.

Archery, Target

Van Patter Family

The Power Player Winner in Winter Games in Target Archery is the Van Patter Family from Phoenix . The adults, Michael and Lynn competed on Saturday with the other adults, and their son Colt participated on Sunday with the Youth. Lynn and Michael selflessly devoted their time on Sunday to teach and help the youngest contestants and newest archers keep score on Sunday. The family is very giving of their time to help in any way they can in a sport they love. The family is a great ambassador in the sport of archery

Arm Wrestling
Mike Mancuso

The Power Player Winner in Winter Games Arm Wrestling is Mike Mancuso. Mike is an intense competitor yet is gracious in winning or losing. He is very respectful other competitors and officials. Mike is always willing to share his knowledge of the sport with anyone. Mike is a good ambassador for the sport of Arm Wrestling.

Baseball, Adult
Frank Neville

The 2008 Winter Games Adult Baseball Power Player Award Winner is Frank Neville, manager of the Bulls. Frank is very respected and respectful to the Umpires, players and officials whenever on the field. He leads by example and is well liked by everyone he deals with. A perfect example of what the Power Player Award stands for and represents.

Basketball, Boys
NJB Boys

The Power Player Winner in Boys Youth Basketball is the Flagstaff NJB Boys 12 & Under Basketball Team. The team is coached by Mr. Tyrone Johnson and is an all-star team from the Flagstaff area. They are currently preparing for the National NJB tournament in California . The players are always respectful of their coach, parents and games officials. They are a hardworking & dedicated team of 12 year olds and appreciated very much the opportunity to participate.

Baton Twirling

Megan Ekstrom

The 2008 Power Player for the winter Games Baton Twirling is Megan Ekstrom. Megan has twirled for 13 years and is presently a feature twirler for ASU. Her numerous awards include All-West Regional 3 baton champion and finalist in the NBTA national 3 baton competition. She has been competing at the Grand Canyon State Games for 13 years. She is very well respected, very competitive but is still has time to assist the younger twirlers to improve their skills. She posses many of the seven pillars of character and is an excellent role model for young athletes

Desert Challenge

Kristen Messer

The 2008 Power Player Award recipient for Desert Challenge is Kristen Messer, a 21 year old female wheelchair racer from Austin, Texas. Kristen placed in every event that she competed in during the 2008 Desert Challenge Regional Games including track and swimming. Kristen stood out because of her athletic accomplishments as well as her sportsmanship. Kristen attended all six events during the two-day competition to support the other athletes. Kristen always had a smile on her face and strives to meet and socialize
with every athlete at the competition.

Dodgeball

Team Defiant

Team Defiant demonstrated a great attitude and good sportsmanship during the tournament and were very supportive of their fellow Tucson teams. While one of the younger teams in the competition, they showed courage and resilience impressing the tournament staff and earning this Winter Game's Power Player Award for Dodgeball.

Equestrian

Megan Feeney

The 2008 Power Player award winner for the sport of Equestrian is Megan Feeney. Megan has always demonstrated great sportsmanship and she has genuine respect for other riders. Megan is always encouraging others to do their best and yet is competitive herself. Megan truly loves horses and rides whenever she can find time. Megan truly epitomizes the Power Player Award as she posses and practices the six pillars of character in her life.

Golf

Julian Galindo

The Power Player Winner in Winter Games Golf Competition is Julian Galindo. Julian is an individual who truly demonstrates the 6 pillars of Character in more ways than one. He has been involved with Special Olympics golf program and most importantly through the Friendship Golf League designed for Special Olympics golf athletes who are taking their game to the next level.  As a student at ASU and working part-time he embraced the opportunity to partner with one of the golf athletes and has never looked back. He’s been there for the athlete’s aspiration to excel in his golf game. 

Ice Hockey
Beckie Aungst

The Winter Games Power Player Award Winner for Ice Hockey is Beckie Aungst. Over the years Beckie has devoted countless volunteer hours as a team manager for the Ozzie Bears hockey clubs. Her tireless devotion to the players and parents has earned her the deserved reputation of a reliable and dedicated person. She is a joy to deal with and always has the best interest of the players in mind. Beckie is a shining example of what a volunteer is all about.

Jump Rope

Shannon Dugan

The 2008 Winter Games Power Player Winner in the sport of Jump Rope is Shannon Dugan. Shannon is an excellent jumper and a very outgoing & personable young lady. She is very competitive yet is always willing to assist other athletes. Shannon is very respectful of her coaches and is a good representative for the Sport of Jump Rope.

Karate

Brett Fabian

The Power Player Award Winner for the sport of Karate is Brett Fabian. Brett has been involved in Karate for over 8 years and earned his black belt in 2006. Brett is very competitive during the event but when the match is complete he always congratulates his opponent win or lose. He is respectful of all officials and never complains regardless of the situation. Brett is a sophomore at Desert Vista HS and is an honors student with a 3.7 GPA. Congratulations to Brett Fabian, who is a very deserving Power Player Award Winner.

Mountain Biking

Jim Cox

The 2008 Power Player award winner for the sport of Mountain Biking is Jim Cox. Jim has always demonstrated a positive attitude, good sportsmanship and a genuine respect for others. He enjoys competing and has entered the squash, badminton & mountain biking events in both the Winter & Summer Grand canyon State Games. Jim is from England now living & working in the Phoenix area. Jim is a true gentleman and is always encouraging other competitors.

Outdoor Sand Volleyball

Andy Parker

The Power Player Winner in the Outdoor Sand Volleyball Winter Games is Andy Parker. Andy exhibited great sportsmanship while being an intense competitor. He is a self-proclaimed volleyball god, yet is very respectful of other competitors and officials. Andy has a fun and outgoing approach to the game, which helps everyone have a positive and enjoyable experience.

Rock Climbing
Stephanie Larrabee

The Power Player Award for the Sport of Rock Climbing goes to Stephanie Larrabee of AZ on the Rocks. Stephanie is one of the most trustworthy people we have ever had the pleasure of dealing with. It is people like Stephanie that allow for companies to be successful. Stephanie possesses the greatest qualities anyone can possess: pride in what she does, integrity and character. She goes above and beyond what is asked (if it even needs to be asked, which it usually doesn’t) and always sees her projects through.

Shooting

Sean McMullin

The Power Player Award for smallbore rifle Shooting goes to Sean McMullin. Sean is 12 years old and is in 7th grade at Gilbert Junior High School . He regularly earns honors grades at school, and actively is a leader on the football and track teams. He often helps others and always has a great attitude. We are very proud to offer this award to Sean.

Skiing
Kegan Boyer

The Power Play Award for Skiing goes to an outstanding athlete who shows remarkable character not only on course as an athlete, but in his daily life. Over the past two days of the GCSG competition we as coaches have observed this athlete show a great deal of respect and kindness towards his opponents, fellow team members, and coaches. Always helping those in need, and lending a hand without a complaint is what makes this years Power Play Award winner an all around good kid! This athlete is an amazing racer, and an upstanding citizen, and we are proud to have him be apart of team FAST. That is why this years Power Play Award goes to KEGAN BOYER!

Soccer, Adult

Victoria Thomas

Victoria Thomas is an example of someone willing to do whatever necessary to help the Grand Canyon Games and its participants. As a soccer volunteer, she became aware that the coed bracket only had 2 teams. The thought of having to inform these 2 teams of a cancellation posed a difficult situation for the organization. She organized a team at the last minute that could compete in that division. In Coed however you need a minimum of 5 ladies to complete the team. Faced with this situation she decided to go to the store and buy new clits and try playing after not playing for over 20 years. Victoria played 2 games and was on the field for the entire game with no substitutions. Victoria is the perfect example of the spirit of the power Player award.

Soccer, Youth

Hector & Edmundo

The Power Player award winner are Hector Gutierez & Edmundo Hernandez. Both coaches are well liked and highly respected by parents & players and officials. They are good role models and set solid examples for their players. Perfect examples of the six pillars of character.

Squash
Dan Huebner

The 2008 the Power Player award winner in Squash is Dan Huebner. Dan
was selected for his great attitude and sportsmanship. Dan won Silver last
year in the C division but rather than play that division again he elected
to move up and see how he would cope. He lost all his matches but rather
than being disillusioned about his lost he ploughed saying "Now I know how
much more work I have to do, better start working. Throughout the whole
time Dan just had a great big smile on his face, just like in the photo.

Table Tennis

Joe Pierotti

Joe Pierotti, a top level Arizona table tennis player, plays at many tournaments in the Phoenix area as well as in Las Vegas. Joe works at his "real" job for more hours than most humans can, yet after all that stress, Joe manages to be the most polite good natured player in the tournaments. Whether he wins or loses, Joe never gets discouraged and is always the king of good sportsmanship.

Taekwondo

Jason Scissons

The 2008 Power Player award winner for Taekwondo is Jason Scissons from Prescott AZ. Jason started in Taekwondo at age 13 and has moved up in Belts very rapidly. Jason is very competitive but treats all athletes and officials with respect & dignity. He is continually encouraging young competitors in the sport. Jason is a great example and ambassador for the sport of Taekwondo.

Tennis
Vlad Mihai

The 2008 Power player for the Winter Games Tennis event is Vlad Mihai from Rumania . Vlad is not only a powerful young player but a very humble young man. He is respectful of other players and officials and rarely questions line calls on court. He is a good example to other tennis players, by exhibiting good sportsmanship and competitive fair play. Vlad exhibits many of the 6 pillars of character.

Track
Neil Saling

The 2008 Adult Track Power Player Award Winner is Mr. Neil Saling. Neil is a senior field event competitor in the Discuss and Shot Put for over 60 years. Neil is well respected in the Track & Field community for his competitive nature and pleasant personality. Neil is a Retired Army Colonel and spends his summers in Oregon . Neil is a great role model to young Track & Field athletes.

Wiffleball
Alexis and father AP Sandoval

Wiffle Ball Winter Games 2008 has awarded the Power Player(s) Award to Alexis and father AP Sandoval as they teamed up to be a Power Family. Alexis was the only player under 18 in this tournament –she is 12 years old. That didn’t stop father AP from batting the 12 year-old Isaac Middle School 7th grader in the lead-off spot. Most opposing teams say the young 12 year as a non-threat until her first plate appear in each game. Alexis pitched as well as hit and had more drives off the fence than most players in the tournament. Her attitude and enthusiasm was infectious and was complete team player.

Wrestling

Hoover family

The 2008 Wrestling event Power Player Award winners are the Hoovers that started wrestling as a family about nine years ago. When Michael & Ryan started wrestling Mr. Hoover initially stayed on the sidelines as a coach. Then Mr. Hoover began wrestling in the Open Division tournaments and then go out and coach Michael and Ryan in their matches. Then three years ago Mr. Hoover and his sons entered their first Grand Canyon State Games in which they all competed in the Open division. They were all very excited about it
because it was the first time that they were all in the same division, especially as the State Games had always been the premier wrestling tournament in the state. More than anything else the Hoovers have enjoyed the closeness that they have shared and the friendships that they have developed while competing in wrestling. Michael and Ryan still try to stay active at the high school by working with the high school team and youth programs.

Valley of the Sun 1/2 Marathon
Zaharis Elementary/1st Marathon Running Club

The Zaharis Elementary / 1st Marathon Running Club was chosen as this year's recipient of the Valley of the Sun 1/2 marathon Power Player Award. This first time group of 50 kids (aged 6-8 years old) spent 12 weeks training after school to run in the Grand Canyon State Games Half Marathon Kid's Mile Race. Two times per week the kids would spend an hour after school learning aspects of Health in Fintess in a fun group atmosphere - while increasing their ability to run 1 mile in preparation of their upcoming Race. Parents, Staff and over 1,000 participants were in attendance to watch theses kids run their last mile across the Half Marathon Finish line. Each Child displayed the 6 pillars of Character and what it takes to be selected as the recipient of this year's Power Player Award.