MYB presents the spirit and service awards for meritorious service

Marblehead Youth Badminton celebrated some of its long-standing volunteers, who have given their time and expertise to help run the sports organization behind the scenes this spring. The honorees included Jennie Aspinall, David Deutsch, Marion Higgins and Leanne Torrie. 

The Dee Colcord Spirit Award was created to recognize MYB’s former president (2005-10) for generating a spirit of fun, dedication and fairness in the highly competitive sport of badminton.  Each year, recipients are chosen from the entire organization that includes the players to volunteers.  Last month, Joan Cayen, the president of MYB, presented the Award to Aspinall, Higgins, and Torrie.

Aspinall has worked on and off as treasurer for MYB since 2008.  She started with taxes and has done a bit of everything from managing the coach’s monthly payroll to filling the moneybox for bake sales.  Her sage advice will be as much missed as her financial skill.

Higgins and Torrie both learned Joomla, so that they could launch MYB’s online registration in 2012.  Between them, they make signup a breeze, and keep the website up to date with the latest tournaments, articles and awards.

The Bud Orne Spirit and Service Award went to someone who, like Bud, passionately supports youth badminton and exemplifies qualities that Bud respected, such as determination, fair play and enthusiasm for the game. 

This year, Cayen was pleased to present the Award to Deutsch, who loves to play badminton, and his joy on the court is infectious.  He is, she said, always generous with his time and talents.  He volunteers for many MYB initiatives, and currently sits on its Board.

With the exception of Coach Nick, Marblehead Youth Badminton is an entirely volunteer-run organization.  Many people commit their time and energy to keep the organization running smoothly throughout the year, and many more pitch in during the special events, notably the New England Junior Open held annually in Marblehead.