Jan/Feb 2007 | The Olympian

A LETTER FROM WILLIE BANKS

U.S. Olympians President

A few weeks ago John Naber and I were sitting in an airport together doing what any two Olympians do when they get together; we were talking about the Olympic Games. During our conversation John asked me about my experience with good sportsmanship. That got me thinking about the instances when I witnessed athletes putting the integrity of sport above personal advantage . I remember my UNESCO Fair Play ceremony, hearing the story of Alexandre Medved, a freestyle wrestler, who risked a medal by refusing to attack his opponent's injured leg.

This year the USOC with the support from U.S. Olympians and Paralympians launched year two of its National Olympic Education program with Sportsmanship as the theme for 2007. This program will promote good sportsmanship in schools and on the fields of play. I know that all of my fellow Olympians will help tum this initiative into a great success. To help you deliver the sportsmanship message, the USOC has developed a speech and DVD for you to use that is specifically focused on sportsmanship.

Speaking of good sports, I want to thank all the people who ran for vice president of the U.S. Olympians . To those of you who were not elected, I commend you for trying. I am honored that I am apart of an organization like the U.S. Olympians which truly exemplifies through its deeds the true spirit of sportsmanship, "to be gracious in victory or defeat."

As a side note, John Naber is again writing one of his fantastic books and, you guessed it, the subject is sportsmanship. If you have an Olympic story about someone who showed exceptional sportsmanship please pass it on to John at (John @ JohnNaber.com) for inclusion in his book. I am sure he will give you credit.

Willie Banks

Joey Cheek, Hannah Teter, Jessica Long, and U.S. Men's Curling Team Selected to Receive U.S. Olympic Committee Awards for 2006 Accomplishments

Long-track speedskater Joey Cheek (speedskating, 2002, '06), snowboarder Hannah Teter (skiing , 2006), Paralympic swimmer Jessica Long (swimming, 2004), and the U.S. Men's Curling Team have been selected as the 2006 United States Olympic Committee (USOC) SportsMan, Sports Woman, Paralympian and Team of the Year, respectively. All 2006 winners are first time recipients of the awards.

"These prestigious awards recognize the outstanding contributions these athletes have made to Olympic and Paralympic sport as well as the positive example they have set for all Americans," said USOC Chief Executive Officer Jim Scherr. "Each of our

winners exemplifies great sportsmanship and strength of character both on and off the field, and all are worthy additions to the distinguished list of past recipients."

Joey Cheek skated into the spotlight at the 2006 Olympic Winter Games in Torino , Italy. Cheek won the gold medal in the 500meter individual long track, with the largest margin of victory in more than 50 years, and the silver medal in the 1000-meter individual long track events. In addition to his athletic achievements, Cheek ' s performance off the ice was also a key component to what

secured his selection as SportsMan of the Year. During the Games in Torino , Chee announced that he was giving $40,000 i winnings to Right to Play for a refugeeeffort for children in Darfur, Sudan. His philanthropy brought him national respect and recognition throughout 2006. To date he has been honored as U.S. Speedskating's Athlete of the Year, one of Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People and one of Ten Young Outstanding Americans presented by the Jaycees. He also won the 2006 Olympic Spirit Award Delivered by DHL and National Sportsmanship Award, along with being named as the first recipient of the Reisman Humanitarian Award.

Snowboarding was one of the most popular events at the Olympic Winter Games in Torino, and Hannah Teter's gold medal-winning performance in the halfpipe will be a memory for years to come. Teter's gold

medal run included a frontside 540 melon, method air, frontside 900 stalefish, indy air, frontside 360 with a frontside grab and a switch Cab 540 stalefish. In 2006 on her way to Torino, Teter also won two Grand Prix contests and took second at another; the Grand Prix is the premier snowboard competition series in the nation. She also won the 2006 World Cup. In only four years as a professional, Teter has won every major halfpipe competition in the world with the exception of the U.S. Open. Prior to the Olympics, Hannah made her big screen debut in First Descent, a Hollywood- f\

released film documenting the rise of snowboarding t~gh the eyes of riders . Raised in a family with t snowboarding brothers, Hannah started snowboar ding at age 8

Paralympian swimmer Jessica Long had a phenomenal year with a long list of impressive accomplishments . She set five world records and earned nine gold medals at the 2006 International Paralympic Committee Swimming World Championships in - Durban, South Africa in December. Her gold medal performances were in freestyle relay (world record), 100-meter backstroke, 100-meter freestyle (world • record) , 100-meter fly (world record), IM relay, 100meter breaststroke, 200-meter IM (world record), 400-meter freestyle (world record), and 50-meter freestyle. She also set three world records at the 2006 U.S Paralympic National Championships in August; two world records at the GTAC Open in Ypsilanti , Michigan , in May ; two world records at the Belgian Open in Antwerp , Belgium in May; and four world records at the Spring Can-Am in London ,

Ontario , in April. She currently holds world records in 12 events, one as part of a relay. She is Swimming World's 2006 Disabled Swimmer of the Year and was named a finalist for the Women ' s Sports Foundation ' s Sportswoman of the Year. Jessica was born in Siberia and was adopted from a Russian orphanage at 13 months. Because of lower leg anomalies, her legs were amputated when she was 18 months old. She burst onto the international stage at the 2004 Paralympic Games at age 12 with three gold medals and as the youngest athlete on the U.S . Paralympic Team.

U.S. Men's Curling Team also slid into the spot-

light during the 2006 Olympic Winter Games with its best finish ever, securing the bronze medal and the first Olympic medal ever for U.S. curling. Team members Pete Fenson (Bemidji , Minn.), Shawn Rojeski (Chisholm, Minn.), Joe Polo (Cass Lake, Minn.) , John Shuster (Chisholm, Minn.), and Scott Baird's (Bemidji, Minn.) performance capped a year of notable finishes including gold at the 2006 U.S National Championships, fourth at the 2006 World Curling Championships , quarterfinalist at the World Curling Tour Players' Championship , gold at the Korbel Cashspiel (World Curling Tour) and silver at the Strauss Crown of Curling (World Cur ling Tour). Skip Pete Fenson began curling at age 13 and has competed in five world championships. Vice skip Shawn Rojeski began at age 8 and is a three-time national champion. Joe Polo plays second position and was named to the All-Star team at the 2004 Junior National Championships . John Shuster began curling in high school and won his first men ' s national title in 2003 followed by the junior men's title in 2004. Scott Baird is a four-time national champion , has been curling since age 10, and holds the honor of being the oldest athlete at the 2006 Olympic Winter Games at age 55.

While Teter is the first snowboarder to be recognized as SportsMan or Sports Woman of the Year, Cheek joins two other speedskating notables , Eric Heiden (1977 , 1979, and 1980) and Dan Jansen (1994), as SportsMan of the Year. Long ' s distinction as Paralympian of the Year is the second time in three years that a swimmer has been recognized (Erin Popovich, 2004) . 2006 marks the first time U.S. Curling has received Team of the Year accolades.

The USOC SportsMan and Sports Woman of the Year awards have been presented annually since 1974 to the top overall male and female athlete from within the USOC member organizations. The team award was added in 1996 and the Paralympian of the Year was awarded for the first time in 2004 Winners are selected from the individual female and male athlete of the year and team of the year nominations of the USOC and National Governing Bodies for the . Olympic , Pan American, Affiliated and Disabled Sports Organizations within the U.S. Olympic Movement.

Olympians One on One

As a regular feature in The Olympian newsletter through the 2008 Olympic Games, we will conduct interviews with Olympians who are hopefuls for 2008 , coaching or supporting athletes or in this case making the transition from the field of play to administrator. First up, a young man who definite'~ s China in his blood. '_,,

Kevin

Han has taken a Journey

of Olympic Proportions.

I sat down with him to find out how his transition is going.

Cindy Stinger: Kevin, you are one of the most decorated Olympians in your sport, a three-time Olympian, two-time Pan American Games gold medalist, six-time National Champion and USOC Badminton Athlete of the Year from 1994-2002. How does your experience as an athlete help you in your current position as a Manager, Sport Partnerships for the United States Olympic Committee as we prepare for Beijing?

Kevin Han : From a performance standpoint, the fact that I have been there, done that, as an athlete and Olympian definitely helps me as I work to assist the NGB's to ensure collaboration and optimal performance. I also believe that networking is an essential component to success. I have so me key contact s in and around Beijing that I can work with to provide the USOC the best site inspections and help with the negotiations to ensure that we get what we need. I have been given an incredible opportunity to work with the USOC in this capacity, and look forward to the

challenges of helping our 2008 Olympians and Paralympians reach their optimal performance in Beijing.

Cindy Stinger : What are some of the key things you are doing to support the 2008 Team?

Kevin Han: First and foremost , my knowledge of the Chinese heritage is significant , the fact that I can speak the language and understand the culture are key as I work to assist our NGBs in helpi them develop and administer customizeu support programs. Additionally, I have assisted our International Games staff in securing a training facility in Beijing for use during the Games This has become a major service to help maximize our athlete's performance .

Cindy Stinger: Kevin, you have so many strengths. Did you ever imagine you would be in the position you are in?

Kevin Han: The opportunity I have to help our athletes is the most thrilling thing for me. The USOC is a wonderful organization and although I don't have a direct impact , like a coach , I am proud to

.

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be in a position like this to help these athletes achieve sustained competitive e xce ll ence

Cindy Stinger: Kevin, do you ever feel like making a "comeback"? Competing in your native country would be quite a thrill.

K ev in Han: I am a competitor. I love to compete all the time. Anytime I can step on the court and play I do. However , with my current job there just isn't any time. Work has kept me very busy. Right now I'm lucky to get a lunch time game of pick up bask e tball. At this time in my life I'm content to help other athletes achieve their ultimate goals. The Games in Beijing are the most critical in recent history It will be a class event and billions of dollars are being invested I have been given so many opportunities in my life. The USOC has assisted me and now I am in a position to "give back". It was such a privilege to play badminton. I hope I can help others to realize their dreams

Joetta Clark Diggs 1 Sports Extravaganza

A throng of 350 at the sold-out ballroom of the Somerset Marriott Hotel in Bridgewater, New Jersey burst out in frequent cascades of applause throughout Joe Clark's keynote speech the night of September 22.

They knew that this was a man who had lived out the .lessons of his message throughout his life as educator, administrator, counse lor , motiv ational speaker, and orator.

But they also knew that , even as he'd taught and guided thousands of youngsters in his celebrated career at Paterson (New Jersey) Eastside High School , and other places of learning in New Jersey and beyond , that his finest pupils were always the members of his own family

"Life is not easy, it is not fair. Do not expect it to be.

"We ask for streng th and we are give n difficulti es to overcome that make us strong.

"We ask for wisdom, and we are given problems to solve that make us wise.

"We ask for prosperity, and we are given brain s and brawn to work wi th

"We ask for co urage, and we are given dangers to overcome that make us brave.

"What I say to you, "Joe L. Clark told his audience, riveted to his every word in an inspirational address, "is that as yo u eat the bread of adversity, drink the water of affliction, as you meander your way through the obsta cle-strewn course of life, don't ever quit.

"Don't ever, ever, ever do that."

The Clark family runner s had ne ver-ever- ever-ever given less than 100 percent of themselves , representing the nation in Olympic and World Championship competitions dating back to the 1980's and on to the early years of the 21st century.

Eldest daughter Joetta Clark Diggs (athletics, 1988, '92, '96, '00) had made possible this event , called her "Sports Extrav aganza," thanks to the amazing array of deeds she's compiled , as a four-time Olympian , as one of t he greatest women's middle distance runners in American track and field history and , now , six years after she'd concluded her honors-packed career at the Syd ney Games , as a hugel y respected young woman back earning new plaudits in her home state of New Jersey.

Joe Clark had been an excellent distance runner himself in high school and

college , but while he was making the headlines on the news pages - as the bullhorn/baseball bat-wielding principal who'd instilled his own brand of discipl( ·-,,'\1 struggling Paterson Eastside, as portrayed in the _ J9 film Lean on Me by Morgan Freeman - his chi ld ren were making headlines of their own on the sports pages .

For all the Clarks, there was no greater moment on the track than the 2000 Olympic Trials in Sacramento , Ca li fornia.

The women's 800 -m eter final was won (in 1:58.97) by Hazel Clark (athletics, 2000, '04) , Joetta's sister.

In second place (1 :5 9.12) was their sister-in -law, Jearl Miles-Clark (athletics, 19 88, '92 , '96, '00 , '04) , whose husband / coach is J J. Clark, brother of Joetta and Hazel.

And snaring third place in 1:59.49 - with a despe rate, final-stride lunge over the finish line that got her there in ches ahead of Meredit h Rainey Valmon (athletics , 1992 , '96) - was Joett a.

It was history that may never be equaled - thre e members of the same fam il y earning the right to represent the nation in the same Olympic event.

At Sacramento trackside, leadin g the c he er leadin g, of course, was Joe Clark.

For one family to have achieved so much over the s is simply incredible , virtually unmatchable.

Joetta Clark Diggs' career as an elite runner spanned an astounding 25 years , starting with her days at Columbi a High School of Mapl ewood, New Jersey, under coach Len C lepack, and cont inuing on to NC AA All-America s tardom at the Univer sit y of Tenn essee.

She was a national colleg iate champion nine times , a USA champion 11 times. Ranked in the world's top 10 in nine separate seasons, she is the only Americ a n woman ever to break 2:00 for the two-lap distance over an amazing 15-consecutive-year span.

Hazel Clark , who placed seve nth in the Sydney 800 final , and represented the USA at the Athens Game s of 2004 , continues at the top of her game and was the USA national champion once again in 2006.

A Columbia Higl._ J as well, she b ecame a

THE HISTORY-MAKING 2000 USA WOMEN'S OLYMPIC BOO -METER TEAM : LEFT TO RIGHT SISTERS HAZEL CLARK AND JOETTA CLARK DIGGS AND SISTER-IN -LAW

JEARL MILES CLARK

five-time NCAA champion at the University of Florida, and a five-time USA titlist in her own right, and continued to star on the F ean circuit this summer. She seems destined to run her way tL , Beijing Games of 2008 , too.

It's sister-in -l aw Jear1, though , a five-time Olympian, who is the lone Clark to have reached the uppermost step of the victory platform at the Olympic Games and World Championships I

said. And discipline and enthusiasm became themes of the evening's program.

Joe Clark's own enthusiasm for tackling major assignments dates back to his own childhood, when his mom told him to "stop all the peacocking because today's peacock is tomorrow's feather-duster."

He thanked everyone in the audience for "coming out toni ght and sha rin g your precious life , with this compilation of finite mortality."

"Make sure your life is a life of service," he urg ed. "Make sure yo ur education and your resources are ava ilable to all of those aro und yo u. Those should be your goals, your objectives, and your visions."

GATHERED AT THE JOETTA CLARK DIGGS SPORTS EXTRAVAGANZA IN BRIDGEWATER, N.J STANDING (LEFT TO RIGHT) FRED THOMPSON , LARRY RAWSON , DR . MARC JAFFE , NORMAN TATE , DERRICK ADKINS , KEVIN YOUNG , JACK PIERCE , THOMAS JEFFERSON AND ELLIOTT DENMAN. SEATED ARE: CHERYL TOUSSAINT-EAMON , CANDY YOUNG -SANDERS, JEARL MILES -CLARK , JOETTA CLARK DIGGS, CONNIE PRICE -SMITH , DEDEE NATHAN ,KIM BATTEN , AND HAZEL CLARK

As a 400-meter runner, the former Alabama A&M University star t he gold medal at the 1993 l.A.A.F. World Cha mpion ships in 6 art, and gol ds in the 4X400 relay at the 1996 Atlanta and 2000 Sydney Games, as well as relay silvers in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics and the 1997 and 1999 World Championships.

Brilliant as Joetta and Hazel have been over 800 meters , it's Jearl who holds the American record for the distance with her 1:56.40 performance at Zurich, Sw itzerl an d in 1999.

Husband J.J. Clark is now recognized in his own right as one of the nation's and world's top mentors as women's head coach at the University of Tennessee.

Many of the Clarks' firmest track and field friends turned out to celebrate the "Extravaganza."

On hand were such notables as Derrick Adkins (athletics , 1996) , Kim Batten (athletics , 1996, '00), Thomas Jefferson (athletics, 1984), DeDee Nathan (athletics, 2000) , Jack Pierce (athletics, 1992) , Connie Price-Smith (athletics, 1988, '92, '96 , '00) , Marcus O'Sullivan , No rman Tate (ath letic s, 1968) , Cheryl Toussaint Eamon (athletics, 1972), Candy Young-Sanders (athletic s , 1980) and Kevin Young (athletics , 1988 , '92) , along with famed coach Fred Thompson (athletics, 1988) and 2004 USA team chiropractor Dr. Marc Jaffe.

Serving as Master of Ceremonies was noted broadcaster Larry ~on, often called "the voice of track and field" and recogfor years of hi s top coverage of the spot on every l eve l. "Discipline is not the enemy of enthusiasm," Joe Clark had often

"Serving others, whether they loo k like you or notit can never matter whether they're bla ck kids, or white kids , or brown kids , or polka-dot kids - if I can't help them all equally, I don't want to be involved in the process. I will never surrender my principles to race or ethnicity."

"Give the world the best that you can and I can say, unequivocally, that the best wi ll come back to you."

The "Extravaganza , " presented by Panasonic, also honored leading New Jersey track and field coaches Dr. Greg Bordiuk and Jesse Jackson. Congratulated as 2006 "Joetta Geniuses" scho lar ship winners were New Jersey high school track stars / classroom scholars Donna Alexander, Daniel Goldberg, Angelica Johnson, Ashley Newby, Jarvis Thomas and Kyle Von Linden.

In addition to their track and field skills , each of them compiled a GPA of 3.0 or better, and performed many hours of community service.

Following h er retirement from competition after the 2000 Sydney Games, Joetta Clark Diggs started on the new path - so well defined by her dad - of "putting back."

And so she formed the Joett a Clark Diggs Sports Foundation, Inc. , wh ich is committed to teaching good health, positive work ethics, and making the right decisions in life

"This evening , " she said, was many years in the making." Thanks to her many sponsors, a hard-working committee and the support of so many of her Olympic friends, the "Extravaganza" was a smashing success.

In addition to funding the scholarships , "Extravaganza" proceeds will be u sed to continue her programs of .fitness promotion, health awareness seminars, and grass-roots track and field camps.

It 's clear that she's found a mission that will keep her busy for years and years to come, a mission that - true to her dad's ur ging - she'll never- ever-ever-ever quit.

Olympians Reaching Out

Many Olympians are actively involved in helping in the community, the nation, and the world. In this section of our Newsletter, we will be highlighting some of the ways our colleagues are continuing the Olympic path of excellence.

U.S. Paralympics announced that it sponsored six aspiring female Paralympic skiers at the 19th Annual Hartford Ski Spectacular that was held in Breckenridge, Colorado on December 3-10, thanks in large part to the generosity of Lindsey Kildow (skiing , 2002, '06) winner of the 2006 U.S Ol y mpic Spirit Award Delivered by DHL. The $5,000 grant that accompanied the award was to be donated to a qualified Olympic or Paralympicrelated non -profit organization of her choice.

Kildow chose U.S. Paralympics. Excited by her gesture , U.S. Paralympics chose to match her donation in an effort to reach out to as many prospective Paralympic skiers as possible. Athletes were cho s en by U.S . Paralympics based on their previous participation in local skiing programs and coach recommendations. Paralympic-eligible disciplines include sitting, standing and visually-impaired.

Swim Raises Sl 00,000 for UCSF Children's Hospital Cancer Program

LINDSEY KILDOW

With the slogan "Making Waves to Fight Cancer" nearly 50 hardy swimmers emerged from the choppy surf onto a windy Crissy Field near the Golden Gate Bridge the afternoon of Septe 23 following a day long , 10 -mile relay swim around San Francisco Bay.

It was San Francisco's first "Swim Across America" event to benefit the Survivors of Childhood Cancer Program at UCSF Children's Hospital. Saturday's event raised more than $100,000 to benefit pediatric cancer patients at UCSF Children's Hospital. Those interested in making a donation to Swim Across America or the Survivors of Childhood Cancer Program at UCSF Children's Hospital may still do so by visiting the website (www.swimacrossamerica.org) and clicking on "Donate." The clinic was founded to care for children with cancer, about 70 percent of whom are expected to survive and continue to need medical care. "We need to make sure that these patients remain healthy and are aware of any possible long-term effects ," Goldsby said.

The swimmers included six Olympians, medical director of the Childhood Cancer Program Dr. Rob Goldsby, MD , Clinical Nurse Coordinator Aimee Sznewajs and assistant adjunct professor of cellular and molecular pharmacology Marieke Kruidering, PhD

The Olympians who swam on Saturday included Ray Carey (swimming, 1996) of Menlo Park , Jeff Float (swimming, 1984) of Sacramento, Mark Henderson (swimming, 1996) of San Francisco , Susan Heon Preston (swimming, 1984) of Menlo Park , Roque Santos (swimming , 1992), and Janel Jorgensen (swimming, 1988) of Boston, who is also the National Executive Director of Swim Across America. Anne Warner Cribbs (swimming, 1960) of Palo Alto was /\ an event organizer.

HONORS

M Cheek (speedskating , 2002, '06) was awarded the gural Reisman Humanitarian Award on December 11, 2006 at the Reisman Awards Dinner at the Hilton Hotel in New York City, N .Y. in conjunction with the award presentation of the 72nd Annual Reisman Memorial Trophy.

Laura Gerraughty (athletics , 2004) is one of the 2006 recipients of the Patterson Medal , which is given to the University of North Carolina's most outstanding student-athletes. The senior from Nashua, New Hampshire won NCAA titles in 2003 ( outdoor shot put) , 2004 (indoor and outdoor shot put) and 2006 (outdoor shot put). She earned ten All-America honors and won 13 Atlantic Coast Conference individual event championships. A member of the Athens Olympic team , Gerraughty set UNC records in five events and is the all-time collegiate record-holder in the indoor shot put.

A blanket of snow turned Vermont's Green Mountains white as Billy Kidd (skiing, 1964 , '68), the first Native American male to win an Olympic (silver) Medal in Alpine Ski Racing, was inducted into the Vermont Ski Hall of Fame at the Snowflake Lodge in his hometown of Stowe on Sunday. Governor Jim Douglas saluted t First Vermonters, the Abenakis, on their State gnition, and Billy for evo lving into one of the most respected and beloved figures in the ski world .

Earlier in the day at the Vermont Ski Museum, Nancy Lyons, Chief of the Koasek Abenaki Nation, presented Kidd with an eagle feather for his many contributions to the cause of furthering Native American athletes, particularly in skiing.

U.S. beach volleyball players Misty May-Treanor (volleyball, 2000 , '04) and Kerri Walsh (vo ll eyball, 2000 , '04) won the Women's Sports Foundation's Sportswoman of the Year Award in the team category and received the award October 16 at the 27th Annual Salute to Women in Sports Awards Dinner, held at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City. The partners were

honored with the same award for their achievements in 2004-05. The Federation International de Volleyball awarded the two athletes at the end of the 2005 se ason : May-Treanor was awarded Best Offensive Player, Best Setter and Most Outstanding; Walsh was awarded Best Blocker, Best Hitter and Best Sportswoman The same year, May- Treanor was also awarded Best Offensive Player, Most Valuable Player and, along with Walsh, Team of the Year by the Association of Volleyball Professionals. They are currently ranked No. 1 in the AVP for 2006.

Tracey McFarlane (swimming, 1988) is being inducted into the University of Texas Hall of Honor She won a silver medal as a member of the 4Xl00 medley relay team.

During the first-quarter break of the September 16 University of Pittsburgh/ Michigan State football game, Pitt paid tribute to John Woodruff (athletics, 1936), a 19 39 alumnus, recognizing the 70th anniversary of his gold-medal-winning 800-meter run in the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin. In an amazing race , Woodruff found himself boxed in by other runners after a slow first lap. He did the unthinkable - he stopped running , letting his opponents pass by, and then started the race all over again. His remarkably long stridenine feet in length - enabled him to pass runner after runner and take home the gold medal.

Woodruffs health didn't allow him to attend the tribute. Poor circulation forced the amputation of his le gs above the knees three years ago. He also has undergone spinal surgery and a hip replacement

"My mind is still good, though," said Woodruff, 91, speaking by telephone from Fountain Hills , Arizona , where he shares an apartment in a senior housing comple x with his wife of 36 years, Rose. "I'd rather have a good mind and no legs than a poor mind and good le gs."

IN THE NEWS

The U.S. Olympic Committee hosted the 4th Paralympic

Sport is friendship, sport is health, sport is education, sport is life, sport brings the world together

- Juan Antonio Sarnaranch, 1996

Opening Garnes Ceremonies

(L to R) : JOEY CHEEK , LAURA GERRAUGHTY,MISTY MAY TREANOR & KERRI WALSH , AND JOHN WOODRUFF.

Alumni News

Norman Bellingham 2004), who won gold in the coach April Heinrichs (soccer, (canoe/kayak, 1984 , '88, '92) T44 Pentathlon at the 2006 IPC 1996, '00 , '04) as Team Leader. has joined the United States Athletics World She joins Olympians Wes Olympic Committee (USOC) Championships, 2006 U.S . Barnett (weightlifting, 19% , as the organization's new Chief Paralympic Swimming World '96) and Jay T. Kearney Operating Officer. He began his Championship team member (canoe/kayak, 1980) . The addinew assignment with the Jarrett Perry (swimming, tion of these Team Leaders will USOC on Nov. 1, 2006. Norm 2004) and para lympic swim he lp provide an integrated has more than a decade of team head coach Ju lie O'Neill. approach to the support and experience in business adminis- Other Para lympic team mem- services provided to athletes, tration , strategic planning and bers included Lori Daniels (sit - coaches and NGB's in the areas . sport management. For the first ting volleyball, 2004) and of sports medicine , sports scitime in its history, the USOC Brent Rasmussen (sitting vol- ence and coaching ha s Olympians serving in its leyball, 2004), Pam Fontaine two senior-most management (table tennis, 1996}, Gabriel Amy Gamble (team handball, positions. Belli n gham and Diaz de Leon (athletics , 1992, 1988) has had many different USOC Chief Executive Officer '96, '00, '04) , Jacob Heilveil life experiences. In addition to Jim Scherr (wrestling, 1988) (athletics, 1996, '00, '04), being an Olympian, she played were both members of the 1988 Christina Ripp (athletics , college basketball at two major U.S. Olympic Team in Seoul, 2000 , '04), and Casey Tibbs universities . She was one of Korea Bellingham teamed with (athletics, 2004). the top high school basketball Greg Barton (canoe/kayak, p laye r s in the country in 1983 1980 , '84, '88, '92) to win the Dragomir Cioroslan She grew up in a small rural gold medal in the two -man (weightlifting, 1980, '84) has town in West Virginia, and 1,000 meter sprint kayak race, been named Director, went on to live in nine different while Scherr competed in International Strategies and cities, in cluding some of the freestyle wrestli n g . Developme nt for the United largest cities in the United States Olymp ic Committee. He States . Sh e is a survivor of Military Summit October 17-22 has participated in seven sexual ab u se and incest , do 1 in cooperation w ith the Fort Olympic Games, three as an tic violen ce and emotional " -· Carson Army install ation and athlete and four as a coach, physical ab u se inflicted on her the U.S. Air Force Academy. team manager or international by multiple people who crossed Thirty -five recently injured representative. Originally from her life path . She is also a surservice members attended the Romania, Cioros lan will be vivor of the Health Care event, which featured clinics responsible for U.S intern.a- System's many flaws and misand competition in five tional leadership development takes Paralympic sports: Shooting, and NGB international relations Sitting Vo ll eyba ll , Swimming, strategies and support . Amy has written in journals Table Tennis , an d Track & since she received one as a Field. Several U.S. Paralympic The USOC completed its Christmas present - the Seventh ath letes and coaches were Performance Services Grade Diary may very well involved at the event, including makeover with the addition of have saved her life on many Casey Tibbs (pentathlon , gold medal winning soccer occasio n s! She has worked in

Alumni News

the pharmaceutical industry for more than 14 years . She has shaken hands with Corporate CEOs and Senior :utives , and has given rides home to people begging h.,, --money on the street. She has a Master's Degree in Organizational Management and a B.A. in Communication.

Amy has traveled to almost every state in America and more than 20 countries around the world. Her greatest life lessons h ave come from people - in all walks of life

And she is an author, writing with passion and insight. Look for her book, Conc~aled Wounds: She Speaks.

H

e lp Dr. Samantha Leavnowicki unlock the mysteries! Concealed Wounds is the first book in a series of drama, mystery and real life "trues!"

Tommie Smith (athletics, 1968) and John Carlos (athletics, 1968) , who gave the historic black power salutes at the 1968 Olympics, were reunited for the last time with the third man on that podium. Smith and Carlos attended the funeral of Peter Norman, the Australian sprinter who died in early October of a heart attack at 64. The two Americans were pall bearers on October 9 at the funeral attended by about 800 people at a town hall at Williamstown , a Melbourne suburb.

was a lone soldier in Australia," Carlos said. "Many i, _ t1le in Australia didn't particularly understand. Why would that young white fella go over and stand with those black indi v iduals ? "

Norman won the silver medal in the 200 met ers at the Mexico City Games. His time of 20.06 seconds is still a national record Smith set a world record in winning the gold med a l and Carlos took the bronze , and their civil rights protest became a flash point of the 1968 Olympics. Smith and Carlos stood shoeless, each wearing a black glove on his raised, clenched fist. They bo we d their heads while the U.S. anthem was played.

Norman, a phy s ical education teacher, stood on the podi-

um during the Olympic ceremony. He wore a human rights badge on his shirt in support of the two Americans and th eir statement against racial discrimination in the United States.

"Peter never flinched, he never turned his eye or his head," Carlos said. "When I looked into his eyes , I saw nothing but love."

In late September, Dane Spencer (skiing, 2002) received some good news his neurosurgeon gave him medical clearance to begin his comeback after a horrific accident in February when he crashed during a competition in Montana .

Receiving clearance from his neurosurgeon was a major hurdle "It gives me freedom to move into a more intense physical training program," Spencer said

Spencer returned home to Boise, Idaho to participate in a golf tournament that friend and fellow Olympian Jeret Peterson (skiing, 2002, '06) put on for Spencer's benefit.

"With Dane getting injured, he was not able to work," Peters on said. "With his medical bills being completely extravagant, we had to do something. I just can't sit back and watch one of my buddies sit there and have to struggle "

Several members of the U.S. Ski Team and some of Spenc er's Olympic teammates, including gold-medal winning speedskaters Chad Hedrick (speedskating , 2006) a nd Derek Parra (speedskating, 1998 , '02 , '06) played in the tournament.

A group of young swimmers recently had a chance to swim with some of the nation's finest during an Olympic Swim Camp in Clarkesville, Georgia. The camp, which included 34 young swimmers, was held in August an d was led by five-time Olympic Gold Medalist Josh Davis (swimming, 1996, '00) , Margaret Hoelzer (swimming, 2004) , Glenn Mills (swimming , 1980) , and UCLA swimming coach Rachel Stratton . The two-day event focused

• I I I CHAD HEDRICK

Alumni News

on improving stroke technique , training and sportsmanship. All four of the camp instructors demonstrated strokes to the campers, and then analyzed and coached the young swimmers as they repeated the stroke lessons. Each camper was videotaped underwater for stroke analysis by Mills, a stroke analyst expert, and Stratton. The camp was sponsored by McDonalds and Hampton Inn Wisconsin Olympians Casey FitzRandolph (speedskating, 1998, '02, '06) and Suzy Favor Hamilton (athletics, 1992, '96, '00) scored a perfect 10 in Milton, Wisconsin. The threetime Olympians visited area school kids to kick off a healthy eating and fitness program called "Movin' and Munchin' Schools." The two Olympians serve as honorary chairpersons for the program, which promotes healthy eating and exercise. Hamilton told students that candy and donuts don't build strong muscles, but exercise and good foods such as vegetables and fruits do.

On September 19, it was announced that Angela Ruggiero (ice hockey, 1998 , '02, '06) has been appointed the Director of Charles B. Wang Ice Hockey "Project Hope," a new Islanders program aimed at providing young Chinese athletes with access to higher education Ruggiero will also assist former Islanders player

Stev e Webb in developing hockey programs for boys and girls on Long Island In recent years, she has worked with non-profit organizations such as Right to Play, The Women's Sports Foundation, and TeamsofAnge ls .com.

"I am very excited to work as part of this truly humanitarian effort," said Ruggiero . "I hope that I can use my background and energy to make a difference in the lives of many children, both globally and locally."

Angela is also appearing in NBC's new season of "The Apprentice" which debuted on January 7 , 2007. Angela is one of the 17 candidates who will vie for the coveted title of "The Apprentice" and the opportunity to work alongside the legendary business tycoon, Donald Trump. Be sure to tune into NBC on Sunday nights at 9 p.m. EST to cheer on this Harvard graduate and America's three-time Olympic medalist in ice hockey.

Track and field stars Gail Devers (ath letic s, 1988, '92 , '96, '00 , '04), Monique Henderson (athletics, 2000 , '04), Tonie Campbell (athletics, 1980, '84, '88), and Shelia Burrell (athletics, 2000, '04) teamed up to host a two -d ay "Be a Champion Sports Camp" at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Chu la Vista ,

California. Held September 30 through October 1, the camp was offered for children 8-1 ~ years old who participate in v, are interested in sports.

On Saturday, the children learned to throw the javelin, long jump, hurdle and sprint on the track at the Training Center. Devers, a three-time Olympic Gold Medalist and San Diego native , was on the track to offer her insights. Along with Devers, Monique Henderson and Sheila Burrell provided coaching and gave advice to the participants. On Sunday, families were invited and encouraged to come to the Training Center for the camp "Family Day," at which Devers spoke about her athletic journey and the importance of making good decisions. Family Day also included a presentation on healthy lifestyles for the entire family. More than thirty Olympians and Paralympiar~ represe nting 18 sports signe<up to speak in 18 communities across the country to promote the messages of fair play and drug prevention at schools throughout the nation during Red Ribbon Week, October 2128. The USOC coordinated the athletes' appearances in conjunction with its multi-year National Olympic Education Program which promotes Olympic Ideals and Values .

K PARRA , MARGA ,

Alumni News

MILESTONES

N line Hallisey (speedskating, , '02, '06) and bronze medalist J ..P: Kepka (speedskating , 2002 , '06) were married on September 16, 2006 . Caroline is completing her degree work at the University of Colorado in Boulder and JP continues to train, work and study in Colorado Springs , where they both live.

Jason Hedstrand (speedskating, 2002) and his wife Kris are pleased to announce the birth of Joshua Edwin Hedstrand on July 5, 2006. His older brother, Henry born on April 11, 2005, is glad to have a playmate.

Olympic bronze medalist Toby Dawson (skiing, 2006), the reigning dual moguls world champion is retiring after seven seasons of World Cup skiing . Dawson, 27 , born in South Korea and adopted by a pair of married ski instructors when he was three, won three World Championship medals - gold in duals in 2005 , e in mo~uls and duals (at Deer y, Utah) m 2003 , bronze in the \\, mter Games of Torino in February. He also was a six-time winner on the World Cup tour and registered nine other top-three finishes in addition to being the 2002 U.S. moguls gold medalist.

Following a storied career spanning ten years and three Olympic Games, Rosey Fletcher (skiing, 1998 , '02 , '06) is retiring from World Cup competition. A proud Alaskan, Fletcher's first official season with U.S. Snowboarding was in 1999 following the Nagano Games, where she was

the first U.S. rider named to the first U.S. Olympic Snowboard Team. Twice, in 1998 and 2002, Fletcher knocked herself out of competition by falling.

"It was devastating to put every cell, every hair into something and not accomplish it. .. So going into 2006 , I approached the Olympics like I was a fan ... " said Fletcher. She converted that relaxed approach into an Olympic team berth just one month before Opening Ceremonies , and shocked the alpine snowboarding world in Torino with a bronze medal that was inches away from gold.

Far from easing into retirement , Fletcher is now working as a community development specialist in Anchorage She plans to continue being a part of the snowboarding family as she enjoys living in Alaska

Jennifer Rodriguez (speedskating, 1998, '02 , '06) had been retired from speedskating for just two months when her former physical trainer, Kim Nelson, called with a radical idea: Why didn't she try to qualify for the U.S . Olympic cycling team?

Less than two weeks later, after more prodding from two former Olympic speedskaters - husband KC Boutiette (speedskating, 1994 , '98, '02 , '06) and legendary Eric Heiden (speedskating, 1976, '80) - Rodriguez was sold on the idea.

"I might as well give it a try," she said "I have a lot of work to do. It's a brand new sport. I have no idea

what I'm capable of. It's something I'm going into with no real expectations."

Since April , she has pedaled her bike 30 to 40 miles a day, four days a week. Rodriguez will now begin training 15 hours a week and eventually increase that to 35 hours. Rodriguez, the first Cuban-American to win a Winter Olympics medal, retired from speedskating in Junefour months after finishing eighth in the 1,500 meters and 10th in the 1,000 meters at the Winter Olympics in Torino .

Freestyle skiers Joe Pack (skiing, 2002 , '06) , a silver medalist, and Travis Cabral (skiing, 2006) , a 2003 world champion, both announced their retir ement on September 25.

Pack won silver on the aerials in front of his home fans in Park City, Utah in 2002. He returned to the U.S. team in 2006, but didn't place .

Cabral won three World Cup moguls events in 2003 to win the championship. He was also on this year's Olympic team. They join Toby Dawson (skiing , 2006) and Eric Bergoust (skiing , 1994 , '98,'02, '06) in announcing their retirements this year. Jeremy Bloom (skiing, 2002, '06) has also presumably quit skiing to pursue his career in the NFL , meaning the freestyle team must rebuild over the next four years .

IN MEMORIAM

John W. Allen (athletics , 1960) a race walking champion who competed in the Olympics in 1960 , died

(R to L) , SUZY FAVOR-HAMILTON , ANGELA RUGGIERO, GAIL DEVERS , AND MONIQU!= HtNDERSON

September 16, 2006 in San Bernardino, California, where he had lived since 1980. He was 80.

The Buffalo native was a top American race walker during the 195 Os, setting several records for the U.S. Masters and winning five Amateur Athletic Union titles He competed in the SOK race walk during the 1960 Olymp ics in Rome.

In 1961 , Allen went on to become the SOK nation al AAU champion and Outstanding Amateur Athlete of the Year In 1962 , he was both the 40K and 1OK national champion, also winning the nation a l senior title. He also came in fourth in the 20K walk during the United States vs. Russia Dual Meet that year. He was AAU Masters Walker of the Year in 1978 and came in second in the 20K walk in 1979 during the World Veterans Championships in Hanov er, Germany. Allen was inducted into the Niagara Track & Field Hall of Fame in 1998.

The sport of women's rowing lost one of it s most important pioneers on September 10 when Ernestine Bayer, considered the "Mother of Women's Rowing ," died in Exeter, NH at the age of 97 Ernestine was born March 25, 1909 , in Philadelphia and was introduced to the then male-only

sport at the age of 18. It was at that time that she met the late Ernest Bayer (rowing, 1928) , and Olympic hopeful who went on to become a silver medalist at the 1928 games. They were married in January 1928. Bayer had received every award given by the National Rowing Association including the first United States Gold rowing medal and Coach of the Year. She was a member of the first Women's Rowing Olympic Committee, was the first woman inducted into the Rowing Hall of Fame and was named one ofrowing's "10 Most Influential People of the Century "

Steven K. Collins (shooting, 1980) who qualified for the U.S Olympic shooting team and earned an intern ational reputation in pistol competition, • died unexpectedly on January 11, 2006 at Mount St. Mary 's Hospital in Lewiston , New York.

After graduating from NiagaraWheatfield High School in 1980 , Collins became the youngest person to qualify for the U.S. Olympic rapid fire pistol team While the United States boycotted the Olympics that year, the team competed in an international match in Beijing , where he compiled a score of 595 out of a possible 600 - good for a silver medal and a U.S junior record.

For many years, he represented the United States in pistol comp etition in Switzerland, the ~ Soviet Union , Israel, Bra zil «.id Mexico, as well as across the United States and Canada. He held many state and international records , including state indoor and outdoor rapid fire pistol champion from 1978 to 1987 He was one of the first inductees in the Empire State Games Hall of Fame .

Alexander C. Cushing, the founder and chairman of one of the world's largest and best known ski resorts , died at his summer home in Newport, Rhode Island , on August 19 , 2006 He was 92.

Cushing opened Squaw Valley USA resort in 1949 with one chairlift, a rope tow and a 50room lodge. Today it is one of the world' s premier resorts, with 34 lifts and an Alpine village complete w ith upscale restaurants , shops and lodgi, 0 Among other things, Cushing set s tandard s for the ski industry with advanced lift systems and cutting -edge facilities.

He bid for the games as a publicity stunt, never dreaming he might get them. His fledgling resort was little known outside Ca lifornia, and he stunned the sports world by beating out internationally known resorts in Europe. He made the cover of Time magazine in 1959.

(R to L) , TONIE CAMPBELL, SHELIA BURRELL, AND CAROLINE HALLISEY &J.P KEPKA

Alumni News

Emerick Kotaro Ishikawa (weightlifting, 1948) died of cancer on Sunday, November 26, 2006 at the age of 86.

J~ wa was a prime figure in the heyday of weightlifting i1, _,,awaii in the 1940's and '50's , and coached for more than 30 years after retirement from a record-setting and Hall of Fame competitive career.

Little did Emerick Kotaro Ishikawa know when he first began lifting weights to improve his swimming that he was also picking up a pastime that would carry him to the Olympics and inspire generations to try and follow in his footsteps.

Glenn Myernick (soccer, 1996) an assistant coach for the U.S. soccer team and a former head coach of Major League Soccer's Colorado Rapids, collapsed on October 5 after his regular morning jog and never regained consciousness He died October 9 after suffering a heart attack. He was 51.

Nicknamed "Mooch," Myemick coached the Rapids from 1997-2001 , taking them to the Major League Soccer title game in his first year. He also coached the U.S. Olympic team from 2002-04 .

A winner of the 1976 Hermann Trophy as the top collegiate soccer player while at Hartwick College, Myemick made 10 appearances for the U.S. National team from 197 5 to 1979. He was captain of the squad in 1978. He a~layed in the North American Soccer League and won t, .fost Valuable Player award with the Portland Timbers in 1982.

Kurt Orban (field hockey, 1948 , '56) passed away on February 8, 2006 at the age of 89 after fighting hard for several weeks to recover from a serious auto accident. He led a rich, full and colorful life working and playing hard, traveling the world, enjoying his family and his many interests until the accident in mid-December 2005.

Kurt always managed to find time for the sports he loved. Exercise and cultivating good health was part of the fabric of his life. A business trip to Japan would include a hike up Mount Fuji, and games of tennis or skiing depending upon the season. He participated in the Olympics in 1948

and 1956; he was also selected for the 1952 team which never went to Helsinki and the 1964 team which was an alternate to the Tokyo Games He served on the USOC and built the first synthetic turf hockey field in the U.S. outside his offices in Pompton Plaines, New Jersey. He was very active in Field Hockey Olympic Alumni activities and incredibly helpful in organizing gatherings and events. Before his accident, he was helping to plan a reunion and veterans game in 2007.

Legendary Brigham Young University track and field coach Clarence Robison (athletics , 1948) passed away on Monday, September 26 , 2006 in his sleep at the age of 83 The former Cougar great was responsible for raising BYU's track and field program to a level of national prominence in his many years of service.

Robison was the men's head coach at BYU for 40 years, from 1949 through 1988. He also served as an assistant coach for the U.S. National Team in 1989. As an athlete, he was a member of the 1948 Olympic team and held school records in the mile and two-mile run.

His BYU teams won 18 conference championships and tied for the NCAA National Championship in 1970. He coached more than 100 All-Americans, including more than 20 national champions and 26 Olympians.

Robison is a member of the Utah Sports Hall of Fame, The BYU Hall of Fame and the Track and Field Coaches Hall of Fame. BYU's track and field complex was named in his honor in 2004.

Dale Schofield (athletics, 1936) competed against Jesse Owens in the NCAA track and field championships in 1935 in Berkeley, CA. A year later, they were teammates on the U.S. team at the Olympic Games in Berlin. A fouryear letterman at Brigham Young, Schofield competed in the sprints and hurdles. Dale passed away on December 9, 2006 in Portland , OR. He was a World War II veteran stationed in the Pacific with the U.S. Navy. He earned his master's degree in education from USC in 1949 and spent 27 years as a teacher and principal in the Portland Public schools He was proficient in piano , drums and xylophone.

U.S. OLYMPIAN CHAPTERS

Did you kno wthat the U.S. Olympians have regional chapters throughout the country? Look for updates on chapter happenings in future issues of The Olympian! If yau would like to find out what is happening in your area, contad:

Colorado Olympians

President: Gene Kotlarek {skiing, 1960, I64) (303)-807-391 l

Florida Olymp ians

President : Jim Milln s {figure skating, 1976) (813) 926-5955

Georgia Olympians

President : Me l Pender {athletics, 1964, '68) (404) 434 -8514

Hawaii Olympians

President: Richard "Sonny " Tanabe {swimming, 1956) (808) 735 -1088

Indiana Olympians

President : Ollan Cassell {athletics, 1964) {317) 466 -0444

Midwest Olympians

President : Bob Pickens (wrestling, 1964) (773) 425-3254

National Capital Area Olympians

President: Arlene Limas (laekwondo, 1988J (540) 720-1988

New England Area Olympians

President : John Thomas (athletics, 1960, '64) (508) 584 -7474

Northern California Olympians

President: Greg Massialas {fencing, 1980, '84, '88) (415) 441 -0521

Oregon Olympians

President : Clem Eischen (athletics, 1948) (503) 492-2232

Southern California Olympians

President: Cathy Marino Bradford (canoe/kayak, 1988, '92)(714) 847-5596

Southwest Olympians

President : Sammy Walker (weightlifting, 1976) (469) 955-3158

Tri-States Olympians

President : Otis Davis (athletics, 1960) {201) 392-8448

Utah Olympians

Pres ident: Debra Stark Clark (gymnastics, 1972) (801) 369 -9918

Washington State Olympians

President: John Stillings (rowing, 1984) {206) 440-0708

No chapter in your area? Interested in starting a chapter? Contact the U.S. Olympians Association office for details at (800) 717 -7555.

Dorothy Celebrates Her 93rd Birthday

MEMBERS OF THE UNITED STATES OLYMPIANS BOARD OF DIRECTORS POSE DURING THEIR ANNUAL MEETING IN COLORADO SPRINGS

UNITED STATES OLYMPIC COMMITTEE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

USOC CHAIRMAN

Peter Ueberroth

Bob Ctvrtlik

Erroll Davis

Anita DeFrantz

Jim Ea ston

Jair Lynch

Mary Mc(agg

Jim McCarthy

Mike Plant

Dr. Harold Shapiro

Stephanie Streeter

USOC CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Jim Scherr

U.S. OLYMPIANS OFFICERS 2005-2008

EDITORIAL STAFF

PRESIDENT

Willie Banks (athletics, 1980, '84, ' 88)

VICE PRESIDENTS

Dw ight Stones (athletic s, 1972, '76, '84)

Connie Paraskevin -Young (speedskating, 1980, ' 84/cycling, 1988, '92, '96)

Carol Lew is (athletics , 1980, '84, '88)

Dick Fosbury (athletics, 1968)

Micki King (diving , 1968, '72)

Gary W Hall Sr (swimming , 1968, '72 , '76)

HONORARY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Dorothy Franey Langkop (speedskating, 1932)

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

John Naber (swimming , 1976)

PAST PRESIDENT

Bill Toomey (athletics, 1968)

SENIOR EDITOR

Cynthia E. Stinger (team handball , 1984, '88 , '92)

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Leah Chandler Mills

Christine Taylor

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Denis e O'Shea -O'Shea Design

Photos by : Getty Images & The USOC Library

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