I first developed my love for sports at a very early age as I watched my older brothers Dick and Dale compete on the playing fields and courts. A love I shared with my children Amanda and Kyle, who I coached at various levels of competition.

What I didn't realize at the time was that playing team sports would teach me many valuable lessons that I would apply in my personal and business life throughout the years.

I want to thank all the youth coaches that volunteered their time and the high school coaches that help develop my skills for athletics and life. A special thanks to Coach Dan Rom for encouragement and motivation, and knowing when to give me a kick in the butt when I needed it.

To all my teammates, thank you for the memories and the time and effort that you put in at the practices and in games. It was an honor and privilege and makes me very proud to call you teammates.

I would also like to thank my wife of 33 years, Toni. We met at Roosevelt. She would often attend games and cheer me and the team on. Thanks for your love and support throughout the years and for our beautiful family, which I love dearly. Sharing this honor with my family is even more special.