October 23, 2023
HOLYOKE, Massachusetts — There’s more to the annual International Volleyball Hall of Fame induction ceremonies than just honoring the newest members.
This past weekend we might have heard the greatest speech.
Ever.
In the case of this past Saturday, the 37th class included beach great Phil Dalhausser of the USA, beach great Larissa of Brazil, indoor great Katsutoshi Nekoda of Japan (represented by his incredibly gracious widow, Reiko), Italian coaching great Silvano Prandi, longtime administrator Shanrit Wongprasert of Thailand, and indoor great Yumilka Ruiz of Cuba, who could not attend because of visa issues.
There also other awards given, and, seriously, nothing topped the speech from retired AVCA executive director Kathy DeBoer, who was introduced by IVHF executive director George Mulry before she received the Mintonette Medallion of Merit.
Please watch Mulry introduce DeBoer, who then gives her acceptance speech:
Lee Feinswog is the publisher and editor of VolleyballMag.com
Contact him at Lee@VolleyballMag.com
