Sky Recognized At IOU Sports Annual Awards Dinner

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On September 22, 2006, Images of Us (IOU) Sports held its 3rd annual sports awards dinner and silent auction in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Presented by UPS and hosted at Mount Mary College, the dinner and awards ceremony was attended by Milwaukee youth, athletes, sports fans, and supporters of the IOU Sports organization. Each year IOU Sports honors those locally and nationally for their support of community programs and projects that enhance the lives of children and families, volunteer work on behalf of youth and for personal qualities and achievements that make them role models for our youth. These individuals have continued to make outstanding contributions to society throughout their lives, and who exemplify IOU Sports motto to Share, Educate, and Empower girls and women through sports and education.

The 2006 honorees were Kareeda Chones of the Milwaukee Bucks, Andy and Jeanelle Memmel owners of M&M Gymnastics and the parents of Chellsie Memmel, USA World Gymnast, with a Lifetime Achievement Award given to Judy Sweet, former NCAA Vice President for Championships and Educational Services.

Margaret Stender, the year’s keynote speaker, is the President and CEO of the WNBA Chicago Sky team. Stender used her time to speak to the youth about strength and perseverance, and talked with the crowd about her role and responsibilities in developing and marketing the new addition to the WNBA organization, the Chicago Sky. Stender graciously accepted a question and answer session in which attendees utilized that time to learn more about the Chicago Sky, the WNBA, and how to keep girls active and encouraged in sports and sports education related activities.

Upon accepting her award of the evening, Stender along with Bernell Hooker Founder and CEO of Images of Us Sports announced that the Chicago Sky will play an exhibition game in Milwaukee, May of 2007. “We are looking forward to bringing the WNBA to Milwaukee. The WNBA athletes serve as a powerful source of inspiration to follow your dreams. It is world class basketball and great fun. Please come and join us,” stated Stender. “We are planning this family event to show case not only world athletes, but to educate our youth about the business of sports says Hooker. We graciously accept the opportunity to bring the WNBA, women’s sports and entertainment to our city.”

Images of Us Sports is a 501C3 nonprofit organization founded in 2000 by women’s sports enthusiast, Bernell Hooker. The organization seeks to promote unique, cultural, educational and athletic experiences for girls and women. The career, fitness, and leadership programs are made possible by individual and corporate contributions, foundations, and grants. For more information, please call IOU Sports at (414) 393-0773.