Erik Quisgard was everything that an outstanding volunteer should be. He was always among the first to volunteer for any task, no matter how small or unappealing to others. Like many parents, he first got involved in soccer as a way to spend time with his children. His first involvement with MSYSA was as a key helper for the State Cup tournament. Since he never attempted to take the limelight, his work with the State Cup for many years went largely unrecognized, except by the State Cup director, who often said how instrumental his help was in organizing this tournament.

Several years ago, Erik was encouraged to run for a vacant position as MSYSA North Region Commissioner. He was one of the stalwarts in establishing MSYSA's District Development Program in the North Region and also continued his volunteer work for MSYSA in many other activities. After he left the Board, he continued to administer the North DDP, literally up until the day of his death.

In presenting the first award, MSYSA Executive Director Jerry May described Erik as "the epitome of an outstanding volunteer. Always asking what he could do, never asking for anything for himself, never worrying what he would get out of his efforts, other than the satisfaction of doing something to benefit the kids."

At the same meeting where it established this award, MSYSA's Board also voted unanimously to select Erik's wife, Dale Quisgard, as the first recipient of the Erik Quisgard Volunteer of the Year award. In doing so, the Board recognized that youth soccer is often a family affair. In addition to assisting Erik in his involvement with State Cup and the DDP, Dale was for many years an MSYSA registrar and was responsible for much of the financial administration and record-keeping associated with the North DDP.

Click a name to read about the recipient   MSYSA Volunteer of the Year Awards 2002 Jim and Kay McGoldrick 2001 Dale Quisgard