Alongside NCAA Women’s Final Four, Bassmaster, USRowing, and More
Lincoln, Neb. (Oct. 5, 2023) — The Nebraska Sports Council is delighted to announce that two remarkable Nebraskans and the entire state have been recognized with prestigious awards at the 2023 Sports Travel Awards Banquet held as part of the TEAMS Conference and Expo in West Palm Beach, Florida on Wednesday, October 4, 2023. These awards were presented alongside esteemed organizations such as the NCAA Women’s Final Four, Bassmaster, and USRowing.
The Sports Travel Awards Banquet is an annual event that honors outstanding achievements in the sports travel and events industry. Nebraska made its presence felt on this national stage with three notable accolades, showcasing the state’s commitment to excellence alongside some of the nation’s most prominent sports entities.
1. National Congress of State Games Jim Hallihan Legacy Award for Tom Ash
Long-time Cornhusker State Games Executive Director, Tom Ash, was bestowed with the National Congress of State Games Jim Hallihan Legacy Award. This distinguished honor is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the State Games movement. Tom Ash’s journey to this award is a remarkable one, as he transitioned from a 15-year career as a sports writer for the Omaha World-Herald to elevate the Cornhusker State Games to a national leader. His dedication and unwavering commitment to promoting sports and healthy competition in Nebraska are truly commendable.
2. National Athlete of the Year Award for Emmett Hassenstab
Emmett Hassenstab, hailing from Omaha, Nebraska, received the National Athlete of the Year Award. Emmett’s inspiring story of resilience and determination captured the hearts of many. After surviving a spinal cord injury, he defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey of rehabilitation. His triumphant return to competitive sports culminated in a gold medal win as the anchor of the Family 4×100 relay at the Cornhusker State Games. Emmett’s story is one of courage and the unyielding spirit of a true athlete. You can read more about Emmett’s incredible journey at www.preprunningnerd.com/post/emmett
3. National Congress of State Games Award for Best Poster in the Nation
Nebraska was also honored with the National Congress of State Games Award for Best Poster in the Nation for their annual Cornhusker State Games. This recognition underscores the state’s commitment to excellence in event promotion and marketing.
These awards are a testament to the dedication and passion of Nebraska’s sports community, and they reflect the state’s ongoing commitment to promoting sports, fostering talent, and celebrating the resilience of its athletes alongside prestigious organizations such as the NCAA Women’s Final Four, Bassmaster, and USRowing.
The Nebraska Sports Council would like to extend its heartfelt congratulations to Tom Ash, Emmett Hassenstab, and the entire Nebraska sports community for their exceptional achievements. These accolades highlight the excellence that Nebraska continually strives for in the world of sports.
View the photos and videos from the Awards Banquet HERE.
About Nebraska Sports Council:
The Nebraska Sports Council is a non-profit organization committed to promoting healthy and active lifestyles through sports and fitness events. For more information about the Nebraska Sports Council, please visit NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.