COUNCIL MEMORANDUM

From: Office of the City Manager
Date: 10-20-2009
Subject: Presentation of the 2009 Sports Hall of Fame Award
Presenter: Jeff Fuller, Director of Parks and Recreation

EXPLANATION:

At the recommendation of the Farmers Branch Sports Council and the Parks and Recreation Board, the Farmers Branch Hall of Fame Award was created in 1988. Individuals who have served unselfishly by volunteering their time and efforts to assist youth in the City’s athletic leagues are named to the Hall of Fame. Past Hall of Fames recipients are Truett Ball, Nancy Watten and Raymond Leoan.

The nomination for 2009 is Ramy Bidopia from the D’Feeters Soccer Club. The Farmers Branch Parks and Recreation Board approved his nomination at their September 19th meeting.

Ramy Bidopia has been with the D’Feeters Soccer Club since 1986 and has played an active role serving on the board each year and as President of the club for the past five years. The D’Feeters Soccer Club has been a great partner with the City of Farmers Branch, allowing many Farmers Branch residents to play and hosting many beneficial camps open to everyone. The Thanksgiving Showcase has generated over 14,400 room nights over the past 18 years, which has generated hotel room night revenues exceeding $1,000,000.00 for local hoteliers.
This showcase is a huge success because Ramy ensures that everyone in the D’Feeters Soccer Club participates. The D’Feeters also host an annual banquet at the OMNI Hotel with over 200 people in attendance each year.

Ramy’s commitment to the City’s youth has had a positive effect on the Farmers Branch community. He is a strong role model and an effective advocate for youth and youth soccer. The City is fortunate to have Ramy Bidopia and the D’Feeters Soccer Club in the community working with Farmers Branch youth.