Dixon Wins Community Award By: Mike Gapasin and Mark Vidano The Chargers Community Quarterback Award recognizes outstanding volunteers who exemplify leadership, dedication, and a commitment to improving the youth football and cheer experience for the children of San Diego. It is a program of the San Diego Chargers Community Foundation. Since its inception, the Chargers Community Foundation has honored volunteers, assisting with youth sports and helping critical causes important to the community. Mira Mesa Chargers Coach Roger Dixon was the winner of the 2011 Chargers Community Quarterback Award. He was recognized at halftime at the Chargers/Ravens game on December 18, 2011. Dixon said, “I never expected in my wildest dreams that something like this would happen. I just love coaching the kids. Watching a boy develop selfconfidence that will stay with them, hopefully throughout their lifetime is a reward in itself. I just thank God for the opportunity to teach a game that I love.” Dixon will be entering his 17th year of coaching at Mira Mesa Youth Football & Cheer where he also serves on the MMYFC Board of Director as the Coaches Director. He has also coached several years with local baseball, soccer and track associations. Dixon started playing football at an early age with Valencia Park Pop
Warner. He played his high school football at Lincoln High School and then played college football for the San Diego State Aztecs. After college, Dixon had a free agent tryout with the Miami Dolphins and then later with Tampa Bay Bandits of the old USFL. Dixon adds, “Sports during my formative years provided me an avenue for higher education where I received many rewarding life experiences and some sound mentorship.” A Mira Mesa Charger parent said, “Coach Roger is unbelievable and I’m not surprised that this happened. He puts in countless hours serving on the Board of Directors, at games and practices. I have seen him all day from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. at home games working concessions, helping the coaches and checking in teams. It is also not uncommon seeing him reach in his pocket to pay for a boy that cannot afford to play or pick kids up because their parent does not have the time to get their boy to practice. The parents love him, the boys respect him and we’re all happy for him.” Last year Dixon’s Jr. Midget team made it to the playoffs along with three other Mira Mesa Charger teams. The next sign-ups for the upcoming season are Friday, May 11th and Saturday, June 9th. It will be held at the Mira Mesa Recreation Center. For more information, visit the Mira Mesa Chargers website at www.mmchargers.org.
Family and Individual Portraits Sports Action Photography Portfolios • Albums • Fine Art
page 14
to submit an article or events for publication e-mail news@miramesaliving.com