Oregon Sports Authority named Sports Commission of the Year

The National Association of Sports Commissions today named the Oregon Sports Authority its “2010 Member of the Year” at the annual NASC Symposium in Columbus, Ohio. The NASC Member of the Year award recognizes the nation’s sports commission judged to have had the most outstanding impact on its local community through sporting events, community events and/or economic impact.

“This award has been given to the finest sports commissions in the United States — Oregon has joined the best of the best in receiving the highest honor we can bestow,” said NASC Executive Director Don Shumacher.

The past year was truly a remarkable time for the Oregon Sports Authority, highlighted by one of the most exciting and meaningful weeks in the history of Oregon sports. During a very special three-day period just over a year ago, the unparalleled drama of March Madness returned to Oregon for the first time in 26 years. In between NCAA Tournament games, Major League Soccer named Portland as the home of an expansion franchise, producing the city’s first major pro sports franchise in 40 years. Additional elements contributing to the Member of the Year award include the Oregon Sports Authority Foundation’s unending commitment to improve the lives of Oregon youth through sports and physical activity, as well as the incredible success achieved by bringing multiple events to Central Oregon.

“I would like to express our profound appreciation and thanks to all Oregon Sports Authority members, directors of the board and staff who have contributed so much to help make this prestigious award possible, as well as our outstanding partners in the tourism community and the countless number of Oregonians who have been so supportive of our events and initiatives,” said Oregon Sports Authority CEO Drew Mahalic, who accepted the award in Columbus. “It’s also a true testament to Oregon’s growing stature as a world-class sports destination — a reputation that we intend to continue leveraging at every possible opportunity.”

— April 15, 2010