OLYMPIA, Wash. – With the 2012-13 year nearly behind us, the Evergreen Geoducks took an opportunity to look back and honor extraordinary achievements at the annual Recreation and Athletics Banquet on May 30 at the CRC Gymnasium.
Following a catered dinner, Evergreen Director of Recreation and Athletics Matt Newman took an opportunity to honor retiring Vice President for Student Affairs Art Costantino, presenting him with a lifetime season ticket, as well as a lifetime pass to work out at the CRC.
Each of the Geoducks varsity sports, as well as aquatics, The Outdoor Program, Challenge Course and CRC Operations and Event Staff, had the opportunity to reflect on the last year and hand out awards for outstanding achievement.
Evergreen Student-Athletic Advisory Committee handed out an inaugural Contributor Award, which allowed Geoduck student-athletes to recognize an individual for all their support of Evergreen athletics. The initial award went to Chris Balske, Director of Sports Medicine, for his endless support of Geoduck athletes.
The Geoducks also handed out participation awards to all the student-athletes. First year varsity athletes received a felt letter while second year letter winners were awarded a Speedy Q. Geoduck pin. Third year letter winners received a scarf while five four year letter winners were awarded an embroidered blanket.
Graduating seniors from across Recreation and Athletics were also honored for their academic achievement, receiving a portfolio that can be used as they enter the professional world.
The final awards presented were the Student-Athlete of the Year awards, which were presented by Assistant Athletic Director Monica Heuer. Senior Danielle Swain (Rainier, Wash./Black Hills HS) was named Female Student-Athlete of the Year after a record-breaking career as a member of the women’s basketball team. Sophomore Les Jones (Tacoma, Wash./Mt. Tahoma HS) was named Male Student-Athlete of the Year after setting three school records during the indoor and outdoor track and field season.