Victoria Stoltz is named the 2016 Sports Imports/AVCA Courage Award Recipient

Volleyball Courage Award

This Friday December 16, 2016, Sports Imports and the AVCA will be honored to present Tim and Joan Stoltz with the 2016 Sports Imports/AVCA Courage Award on behalf of their daughter, Victoria Stoltz at the AVCA All-America/Players Banquet in Columbus, Ohio.   Victoria was a beautiful young woman with a love for her family, friends, volleyball, and those in need.   She embodied courage and a heart for giving as she battled Glioblastoma.  Victoria Stoltz was a light in this world, and she found her joy in serving those in need.

Victoria chose to use her Make-A-Wish to create a place to serve homeless families in Cincinnati.  Victoria’s House of Hope opened its doors earlier this year and is serving the community Victoria loved.  Tragically, Victoria’s battle with cancer ended last December, but her legacy of giving and serving lives on.

We thought it fitting to introduce Victoria through the eyes of her volleyball coach, Tracey Kornau from Lakota West High School in Cincinnati, Ohio.  Tracey says, “Victoria’s willingness to serve others is what set her apart from her teammates.  She served in both small and monumental ways—from bringing the team ice cream sandwiches before practice to using her personal Make-A-Wish to rehab and furnish a house in Cincinnati for homeless families.

Victoria taught me small and big lessons:

  • There is nothing quite like a convertible ride to take in the autumn colors.
  • Dominoes, Uno, and Mancala…games are fun.
  • Parties, when you dress up and dance with your friends, are a blast.
  • Flowers make people happy.
  • A handwritten note on a homemade card is priceless.
  • Volleyball is just a game.
  • Sometimes it is best to stay quiet and soak it all in.
  • No matter what happens in your life, always have faith in God.
  • Family is what matters most.
  • Service to others is the greatest gift you can give. Or receive.
  • When you can’t find the words, you can speak to others when you show kindness in your eyes.
  • A little girl, with a big wish, can bring out the best in a community.
  • And always, always say thank you.”

We look forward to welcoming the Stoltz family to Columbus and honoring Victoria for her legacy of courage and service to those in need.