BlazeSports America is pleased to announce that in 2013 and 2014 the Dixie Games will return home to Atlanta. After three great years in Tampa, BlazeSports America and the Shepherd Center are honored to bring the games back to Georgia.
As we look back on our experience in the “Sunshine State,” we remark on the dedicated staff and volunteers we’ve met, the great competition we’ve witnessed, and most importantly the exceptional athletes we’ve cheered along the way. Hats off to Andy Chasanoff, Arleen Sand, Randy and Pam Chiavaroli, Paralympic Sport Tampa Bay and the Tampa Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for all they have done to make the games such a success. The events were once again well organized, on time, staffed with excellent officials and held at great facilities. We would also like to extend a big thank you to the corps of friendly and plentiful volunteers that helped make the Games such a success. From the registration process and follow up confirmation of events, to the onsite posting of results, the behind the scenes administration was exceptional. In fact, throughout the entire competition it was apparent that the main goal of the event and focus of the officials and volunteers was the individual success of each athlete, whether that athlete was a first timer or a Paralympian.
Our decision to pursue bringing the games back to Georgia was made easy due to the foundation on which the Dixie Games have been built. The Dixie Games dedicated Board of Directors, talented technical volunteers and countless athletes have all contributed to a world class sporting competition. Congratulations to BlazeSports Director of Training, Education and Certification, Dan Humphreys who was elected Chairperson of the Dixie Wheelchair Athletic Association (DWAA). Dan has served on the DWAA BOD since 2009 and is looking forward to his new role as well as hosting the Games in Atlanta.
As the Dixie Games return home and as Tampa passes the torch to BlazeSports and the Shepherd Center, we acknowledge that we have big shoes to fill. Our pledge is to maintain the high standards set by the Tampa LOC with respect to event management, facilities, officials and volunteers. BlazeSports looks forward to hosting the Dixie Games and continuing the strong tradition that so many folks have made possible. And we hope to see you cheering on next year’s athletes in Georgia!
For more on the Dixie Games, including a history of the games and this year’s results, please visit: http://www.dixiegames.com/
Ce-Ce Mazych received the Spirit of Excellence Award.
