Belize Volleyball Association celebrates Martin Swasey’s Meritorious Service Award

Posted: Wednesday, September 18, 2024. 6:56 pm CST.

Photo Courtesy: Belize Volleyball

By Rubén Morales Iglesias: The Belize Volleyball Association has extended congratulations to Martin Swasey, who was honored with The Meritorious Service Award at the 2024 Tribute to Belizean Patriots on Thursday, September 12. This award recognizes his significant contributions to sports, particularly volleyball, in Belize.

Ben Ramos, a key figure in the development of volleyball in Orange Walk and across the country, said Swasey had made an impact in the development of volleyball in Belize.

“Since becoming an international beach volleyball referee in 2012, Swasey has represented Belize in over 50 international tournaments, including officiating the Gold Medal Match at the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile,” Ramos said.

“He has also served as National Beach Volleyball Commissioner and held elected positions in regional volleyball commissions. Most recently, he was elected as Referee Coach and Beach Volleyball Advisor for Asociación de Federaciones Centroamericanas de Voleibol.”

Martin Swasey officiating at an international tournament earlier in 2024 – Photo Courtesy: Martin Swasey

Swasey’s journey in volleyball began at Orange Walk Technical High School, where he played on the school’s team and participated in national tournaments. His passion for the sport continued in the U.S., where he played semipro beach volleyball and refereed matches. After a knee injury ended his playing career, Swasey focused on reviving volleyball in Orange Walk. Ramos said Swasey restored the Orange Walk Volleyball Association, organized tournaments, coached young players, and built the first sand volleyball court at the Orange Walk People’s Stadium.

“With Martin Swasey’s help, volleyball has flourished in Orange Walk. His commitment to developing the sport and supporting young athletes is truly commendable,” Ramos said.

Currently, Swasey continues to support the sport by offering referee training and collaborating with various volleyball programs in Belize, particularly the Orange Walk Volleyball Association, the Sports Council, and the National Secondary Schools Sports Association with their volleyball programs.

Swasey was among 28 honorees recognized by the Government, including the 1974 ‘Golden Girls’ – Belize’s Women’s Softball Team, who won the gold medal at the 12th Central American and Caribbean Games held in Puerto Rico.

Swasey’s recognition follows 2023’s Meritorious Award for contributions to sports given to the president of the Belize Volleyball Association, Allan Sharp.

Martin Swasey officiating at the 2023 Pan Am Games in Santiago, Chile – Photo Courtesy: Belize Volleyball Association

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