Editor’s note:
We are delighted to share this announcement with our readers. It is fitting that the honor comes to Jim at the 52nd Annual Seattle Invite, with “52” being the magic number – it was 1952 when Jim’s involvement in the game began. Fastpitch in the state of Washington and beyond are synonymous with three initials: “JRW”. He has been a player, sponsor and coach. Roll them all together, and you have someone who has been dedicated to the game, admired and respected by those who have had the pleasure to come into contact with him. I met JRW back in the early 1990’s, at a rental car counter, enroute to one of the first NAFA World Series events. He spotted me as a fastpitch player, and quickly it turned into a great conversation about the game. That conversation has continued ever since.
At heart, JRW remains a fan and student of the game, something that the photo above captures.
Jim Williamson was honored at the concluding awards ceremony, at this year’s Seattle Invite Tournament, receiving a meritorious service award from the tournament committee (Charlie Bendock) for 36 years as a sponsor and 54 years as a coach of youth and mens fastpitch softball. Said Williamson: “[It] Makes it all worthwhile !!”
Photos below of the great looking award from the Seattle Fastpitch Community and the Tournament Program Insert.
Click here for PDF of Program Insert from 52nd Seattle Invite 2012 – JRW Feature, or view below
Absolutely well deserved and Id like to personally thank Jim for all he has done for the game and for me personally. I grew up playing mostly against the red and blue but did eventually find my way into a JRW uniform. This is a well deserved honor. You are truly one of the great promoters of our game Jim – thanks again my good man. All you need to do is get bigger “JRW” letters on those caps (if they would fit).