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The Bob Withers Memorial Sportsmanship Award

In April 2006, many of us all too suddenly lost a dear friend in Bob Withers. Bob is remembered for his kindness, model sportsmanship, and dedication to the Club.

Bob Withers standing in front of stone archway on mountainside in Peru.

In his memory, the Board has created an annual award, to be given to a player who exemplifies the qualities that made Bob so special to so many of us. The award is presented at the annual Club Championships Tournament Dinner.

A little about Bob

For those of you who didn't know Bob well, or won't mind a little reminder, Maclean's had a well written look at who Bob was.

Past and Current Recipients

2011

Estha Murenbeeld was the recipient of the 2011 Bob Withers Memorial Sportsmanship Award. One of the nominations included: "is always diplomatic and friendly on the courts…I think that she would be a very good recipient of this award."

I am very surprised, very honoured and very humbled to be selected for this award. Firstly, to be included in the very good company of the award's other recipients. Secondly, to be nominated by my friends and team mates.

You are all wonderful people that I have been privileged to call my friends, and to enjoy this game of squash with. And if I've been involved for a long time now, it's because of everyone here who has inspired me.

I never knew Bob personally, but I've grown to know his spirit from being an Evergreen Squash Club member.

Thank you.

Estha Murenbeeld — upon "perculating" for a long time

2010

Don Smerch was the recipient of the 2010 Bob Withers Memorial Sportsmanship Award. One of the nominations included: "I think he is an under appreciated 'asset' and deserves the Bob Withers award and just like Bob he is always smiling."

I was shocked and stunned to receive this award. Mainly because I knew Bob and he was a nice guy. I always thought I was much too abrasive and abusive to even be mentioned in the same breath as Bob. I am pretty sure I never heard him swear and I have been told that my language is quite colourful on the courts with the odd religious reference.

It is with great honour that I proudly display the plaque in the wine cellar with the rest of the Spirits and explain to the boys who Bob was and what he did for the game I love.

I can only hope that in the future this award is given to someone more deserving.

Don Smerch — after some time to think upon it

2009

Charles Bristow was the recipient of the 2009 Bob Withers Memorial Sportsmanship Award. A 12 year member, nominated as "a very worthy candidate that reflects the qualities so many admired in Bob Withers."

I did not have the privilege of knowing Bob, but feel quite sure that if I had, we would have got on famously and quickly become friends. For club members to hold me in similar regard to Bob, Henry and Richard is truly humbling and a great honour. When I was a child, growing up in England, it was my father who taught me to "lose well" which turned out to be a very good thing as I lose often!

Charles Bristow – during his acceptance speech

2008

Richard Martin was the second recipient of the Bob Withers Memorial Sportsmanship Award in 2008. A 30 year member of the club, Richard is a gentleman both on and off the court and is truly deserving of this award.

This award is most special to me as I have always admired Bob in his approach to sports and friendship. Sadly, I cannot remember Bob in our days at Hayling; but, our friendship was instant at having both grown up on that small Island of which I have fond memories.

Richard Martin – during his acceptance speech

2007 — Inaugural

And for those who don't remember, Henry Tregillas was the first recipient of the Bob Withers Memorial Sportsmanship Award, in 2007. A 39 year member of the Club, Henry is a friend and role model to us all.

I wonder how Bob, a Kiwi, would think about me, an Aussie, winning this award. Come to think of it, I think that he'd be okay with that.

Henry Tregillas – during his acceptance speech

Nominate a Potential Recipient

Nominations are typically open for a month, or so, prior to the Evergreen Club Championships. If nominations are open, clicking on the "Nominate" tab (above) will take you to an on-line nomination page. If not, a message indicating nominations are not currently open will be displayed.

The recipient is selected solely by Brenda Withers. Any Evergreen member is eligible to receive this award, regardless of age, sex or playing ability.