King County Council recognizes UW championship softball and crew teams

UW programs promote excellence in student athletic achievements

The Metropolitan King County Council today recognized the championship-winning University of Washington Women’s Softball team and the Men’s Varsity Eight crew team for their outstanding achievements.

“These student athletes and their amazing triumphs are great role models for the aspirations of King County youth,” said Councilmember Larry Phillips, sponsor of the recognitions. “As a former student athlete and coach myself, I know the tremendous hard work and dedication it takes to reach the level that these athletes and coaches have achieved. I know the valuable life lessons that come from working together as a team for a common goal, so these championships should be a great source of pride for the citizens of King County.”

“As a recreational soccer player, I have tremendous respect for the dedication and excellence exhibited by these student-athletes who represent the University of Washington and the larger community so well,” said Councilmember Bob Ferguson, a University of Washington alumnus.

“The national championship titles won by these teams proved the commitment of the coaches and players; their dedication to teamwork was critical to their success,” said Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer. “The championships bring a tremendous amount of pride to our region.”

“I’d like to congratulate both the 2008-2009 UW Women’s softball team and the Men’s Varsity Eight and entire Crew Team for their remarkable seasons,” said King County Executive Kurt Triplett, who helped present the recognitions. “Both teams have made the entire region very proud.”

The University of Washington Women’s Softball team won the NCAA Softball Championship on June 2, defeating the top-seeded Florida Gators 3-2 in the second of a two-game sweep in Oklahoma City. The team finished the season with a remarkable 51-12 record and had several standout players, including:

• Husky Pitcher Danielle Lawrie, who was named National Player of the Year and Most Valuable Player in the College World Series and who set a new Huskies record with her 41st career shutout to secure the Husky victory, and

• Sophomore Niki Williams, who set several College World Series records, including most RBI’s in a game (7 vs. Georgia) and most RBI’s (10) during the week, as well as hit three home runs to lead the tournament, all against Georgia, including a grand slam and a three-run shot in the same game, and

• New coach Heather Tarr, who has taken the program to its highest level ever, leading the team to victory by focusing on strong offense.

The University of Washington won the Intercollegiate Rowing Association Championships on June 6, coming from behind in the last 100 meters to defeat California and Stanford. The Varsity Eight’s championship, combined with gold medals for the Second Varsity Eight, Open Four, and Freshman Eight, and a silver medal for the Varsity Four, led the Huskies to also claim this year’s Team Title, the Huskies’ sixth Team Title since it was first awarded in 1952.

Coach Michael Callahan led the intense training leading up to the IRA Championship Regatta and successfully changed the boat lineup before the finals, helping athletes to better support one another in the shell.