Sean Ryan Award
Who was Sean Ryan?
Sean Hunter Ryan: 6/4/72 - 8/12/95
Slug Ultimate: 1991-1995
Sean came to UCSC from Nyack, New York in the fall of 1990. He was into anything outdoors and caught the Ultimate bug during the winter quarter along with many of his friends that were already hooked on the sport. Sean fit right into the scene as a member of the National Championship team of '91.
Sean's style of play could be classified as pure blue collar. He was not one to showboat or to smack talk, instead, he never stopped running and he never never gave up. A person can be taught to throw and catch, but heart and grr have to come from within, and Sean had both in abundance. Through three trips to Nationals, three semis appearances, two finals, and one National Championship, Sean was the defensive stopper for the Slugs. His four layout blocks in the Finals of '95 epitomized the style of play and dedication that he displayed day in and day out.
In keeping with this outdoor interests, after graduating with a degree in Earth Sciences, Sean's path took him to Mt. Rainer in Washington, where he was an assistant park ranger. As part of his duties, Sean was involved in search and rescue missions on the mountain. During one such night mission, Sean and a fellow young ranger from Bates College, fell to their deaths.
It has been many years, but Sean's memory is still strong in the hearts of those that were fortunate enough to be graced by his friendship and by those who attend the Sean Ryan Memorial Ultimate Tournament each fall.
In June of 2003 the Sean Hunter Ryan Memorial park was created in Rockland County New York.
What is the award?
Each year the men's and women's teams vote for the individual on their team who best personifies Sean Ryan. The player whose desire, heart, and team spirit is seen in everything they do.
Past Winners:
1996: Brian Johnson
1997: Maria Bibo-Ferro & Matt Rodkey
1998: Kelly McLaughlin & Chad Taylor
1999: Jenny Safier & Ryan Yarborough
2000: Abby Anker & Chad Taylor
2001: Tasia Balding & Geoff Buhl
2002: Celina Stuart and Claire Meneely & Sam Chatterton-Kirchmeier
2003: Claire Meneely & Kevin Ebbert
2004: Hadley Robinson & George Van Pelt
2005: Dan Hyzak
2006: Jamie Rhodes
2007: Patrick Sweigert
