Leadership Awards
by Al Myers
Tim Piper (left) presenting the Leadership Award to Denny Habecker.
Tim Piper (left) presenting the Runner Up Leadership Award to Thom Van Vleck.
The Leadership Award in the USAWA goes to an individual “that has shown exceptional leadership qualities within the USAWA during the past year. Things that should be looked at are going above the level expected of an Officer position, promoting sanctioned events with emphasis being on promoting National or World Competitions, promoting the USAWA by developing a strong club, writing articles for publications about the USAWA, or through other means.”
The two winner of this award, and very deserving of it, were:
WINNER – DENNY HABECKER
RUNNER UP – THOM VAN VLECK
Both Denny and Thom were on hand to receive their awards at our National Meet Ceremony. But then you would expect that out of them as they are leaders in the organization. Their inputs at our National Championships was vital. Thom served as the Head Official of the entire meet and did not compete because he would rather “give” than “take”. Thom’s contributions of writing for the USAWA Website on a frequent basis has helped ensure it’s success.
Denny has been our USAWA President for many years now. He is the ultimate leader of the USAWA. He attends practically every big event promoted within the USAWA and the IAWA. If a lifter does not know Denny it is because they are not very involved! Denny attends meets all across the country and interacts with the entire USAWA membership. At Nationals he sat in the officials chair WHILE he was lifting just because that duty needed attended to. I think Denny is the best President the USAWA has ever had.
I’m glad to see the USAWA membership recognize these two for their contributions to the organization. They have earned it!