Kentucky Awards for 2000

The Kentucky Youth Soccer Association Awards recognize outstanding achievements by Coaches, Players, Referees and Administrators in advancing youth soccer in the state.  

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Media of the Year Award

Media Award Diane Beckman Javanon Soccer Club

Diane Hay Beckman is a seventh generation Kentuckian whose family still owns farmland in the Franklin County area, where they raised beef cattle and Thorougbred racehorses until just recently.

Although her husband is an Equine Veterinarian, and she an accomplished horsewoman, they are happy to say that they have found just as much joy in the sport of soccer throughout the last 13 years. They have four children, ages 14-18, all of which have participated in soccer, starting at the recreational level in1987, and continuing to play for their schools and select teams to the present. While the oldest son Whit who played at LSC, BonAir and also St. Xavier, is leaving this year for college, the other 3 are preparing for high school and then in the spring will begin their 7th. year at Javanon Soccer Club.

"Watching my individual children play all these years has alloed me the opportunity to experience the sport's different aspects, positive as well as negative. I have always been a strong advocate that every player is given a chance to participate in the game within the confines of a positive environment. The impact of the fans on the sidelines can be a major factor in what this experience turns out to be. I couldn't begin to guess how many games I have attended throughout these last 13 years, but I can say in all honesty that the dynamics on the sidelines are the same whether it is a 5 yr. old recreational team or a U-17 State Cup Final. The fans need to realize that they are there to enjoy the fruits of their childrens' labors, not spoil them.

Beckman is a “soccer mom” from Louisville and winner of the 2000 WePlaySoccer media award for her article “Who’s Game is it, Anyway?” which is reprinted in the July/August issue of Kentucky Soccer News.  

Congratulations,  Diane, and thanks for all of your hard work!