Playing sports does more than give kids a way to burn off all their extra energy. It teaches teamwork, dedication, commitment, communication and encourages healthy levels of exercise and wellness. To honor local athletes, coaches, sports influencers and enthusiasts, The Olympia & Beyond Sports Commission and presenting sponsor Olympia Orthopaedic Associates (OlyOrtho) are hosting their sixth annual Sports Awards on Thursday, November 9, 2023. Come cheer on some of the area’s tireless teams and the folks behind the scenes who make it all happen.
Celebrating Local Teams, Fitness, Coaches and Fans at Olympia Sports Awards
This celebratory evening is a labor of love honoring hard work, sportsmanship and camaraderie. Jeff Bowe of The Olympia & Beyond Sports Commission says that the night is extra special because it spotlights nominations for community members made by community members. “With seven total awards, there are opportunities for high school, collegiate, professional and even recreational athletes, coaches and other contributors to be recognized,” he adds. “Each year we learn so much about locals breaking records or garnering national attention for accomplishments in not-so-mainstream sports.”
Nominations typically take place in the spring for student athletes, explains Bowe, while the Thurston County Sports Legend Award recognizes the achievements of an individual over their lifetime. The Sports Commission Advisory Committee then chooses a winner for each category and that’s no easy task. “Not only is Thurston County chock full of athletes and coaches breaking records,” says Bowe, “but we have an unwavering community of sports enthusiasts and contributors who get behind our athletes and coaches and make impactful events happen every week, these people must be included in this celebration.”
Celebrating Olympia’s Rich Sporting History and Vibrant Competitive Future
Bowe and others are proud of this region’s strong sporting history. Our local commitment to healthy activities is part of the reason why the Sports Commission also supports the Washington State Senior Games, which has been held in Thurston County for the last 26 years.
Olympia Orthopaedic Associates’ Dr. Richard Lamour is a tremendous advocate for sports, athletes and sports medicine. He appreciates their group’s sponsorship of these annual awards because they promote a healthy lifestyle, encourage community engagement and build relationships. “Sponsoring an award that celebrates the sporting community aligns with our values, goals and interests,” says Lamour. “It’s a great way to shine a light on fitness and health overall.”
He also loves how it inspires others, promotes active lifestyles, raises awareness, encourages participation, fosters a supportive environment, serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing physical well-being and can have a positive impact on the overall health of the community as a whole.
OlyOrtho’s Advice for Staying Strong in Practice, Play and Recovery
Lamour offers a few key pieces of advice for athletes of any age. Accidents and injuries may happen, but with proper training and preparation, most players will avoid spending the season benched. If you or your student should find yourself sidelined, you can book an OlyOrtho appointment online or by calling 360.570.3460. “Some orthopaedic practices may not require a referral from a primary care physician for a consultation,” he says, “patients can often directly schedule an appointment with a sports medicine specialist. However, it’s always best to check with the specific practice or your insurance provider.”
To stay strong, limber and healthy, Lamour suggests regular exercise. “Consistent training is key to maintaining strength and flexibility,” he says, “Incorporate a mix of cardio, strength training and flexibility exercises into your routine.” Always warm up and cool down, maintain proper nutrition and hydration, and never skip rest and recovery. “Rest is just as important as exercise in a training regimen,” says Lamour. “Make sure to get enough sleep and take rest days to allow your body to recover and repair itself. Also, particularly for our youth athletes that play a particular sport year-round, a minimum two-month break from that sport is recommended to avoid overuse injuries.”
Be aware of injury prevention by using the proper gear and listening to your body, seek professional help when injuries happen, maintain regular check-ups and don’t neglect your mental health. “Remember, every athlete is unique,” says Lamour, “so what works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to find a routine and strategies that work best for you and your body.”
Get Your 2023 Thurston County Sports Awards Tickets Today
The Sports Awards are open to the public and everyone is welcome. You’ll find a list of all 37 nominees and link to purchase tickets through the event page. As well as the awards, there will be a buffet dinner and presentation by Mitch Lewis, corporate leader turned farmer, who has climbed the highest mountains on each continent and so much more. He’ll speak about Climbing Your Personal Everest and reaching your fullest potential.
Ceremonies run from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, November 9, 2023 at South Puget Sound Community College. Read more about the Sports Commission and past award winners or other events and activities by signing up for Experience Olympia & Beyond’s regular newsletter. Have family and friends visiting for the holidays? Download the 2023-2024 Visitor Guide for things to do and places to see. Then dig out your best jersey, letterman jacket or team gear and come cheer on the next generation of local athletes making a healthier tomorrow today.
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