2015 April WInged Article

High School Basketball All-Stars Compete in 21st Annual Northwest Shootout
We’re celebrating the region’s top high school basketball athletes on Saturday, April 18th as 40 All-Star seniors suit up
for the Merritt Truax Memorial Northwest Shootout. The Multnomah Athletic Foundation invites you to join the action
and amazing showcase of talent during this annual Oregon vs. Washington competition at Liberty High School in
Hillsboro, Oregon. Tip-off for the girl’s game is 4 PM, followed by the boy’s game at 6 PM.
This year we’re excited to announce new coaches representing the Oregon teams. After 26 seasons and a schoolrecord 330 victories for Linfield College, professor and retired men’s basketball coach Larry Doty returns to the game
to serve as head coach for the boy’s team alongside assistant coach—and former Linfield player—Sam Kreiger.
“This series provides some of the best high school basketball in the Pacific Northwest. For family, friends, classmates,
and sports fans, this is the last opportunity to watch sharp shooters and high-flying talent before they take their skills to
the next level,” said Doty. “I’ve always enjoyed the competition and this year I’m excited to represent as a coach. It has
been great to get out and see high school games, as well as reconnect with players and coaches.”
The Oregon girl’s team will be lead by AAU coach and skills trainer Laurie (Milligan) Vizzini, who is a Tigard High School
grad, former University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers basketball player and three-time National Champion under
legendary coach Pat Summitt. Assistant coach, Rick Hassmann, will join her on the sidelines.
“It’s an exciting time to be a part of girls basketball in the state of Oregon. I’ve seen so many players take their game to
the next level, as well as earn degrees from major universities,” said Vizzini. “My hope is they not only excel on the
court or in academics, but also grow to become strong leaders. We need these women to return and continue to help
build healthy, vibrant communities across Oregon and our country—that’s what motivates me to continue to coach
youth sports.”
For the 2015 Oregon and Washington player rosters as well as Northwest Shootout ticket information, visit
www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com. Admissions for kids 18-years and younger are free.
The Cress Scholarship Contest – NEW to the 2015 event!
The Foundation is excited to announce a new scholarship contest in conjunction with the 2015 Northwest Shootout.
Two $2,500 scholarships for post secondary education, one announced during each of the evening games, will be
awarded to students in attendance. MAC member, longtime supporter of the Northwest Shootout and former
Multnomah Athletic Foundation President, Scott Cress, and his wife Dana, created the scholarship contest to bring even
more student fans and camaraderie to this year’s event. See insert for eligibility.
Free Youth Skills Clinic for Portland Students
Once again the Northwest Shootout will include a free basketball skills clinic for Portland-area youth. The Foundation, in
partnership with Portland Parks and Recreation, invites students (ages 7–10) to join Oregon’s All-Star players for a fun
skills session on Thursday, April 16 from 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm at the Eastside Portland Community Center. The free
registration also includes a t-shirt and family pass to the All-Star games.
All-Star Banquet Welcomes Guest Speaker Kevin Carroll
Each year family, friends and event sponsors gather to celebrate athletic achievement and enjoy the camaraderie of the
Oregon vs. Washington competition during a recognition dinner sponsored by the Multnomah Athletic Club. This year
we are thrilled to have author, speaker and inspiration to "Rules of the Red Rubber Ball," Kevin Carroll, an as our
keynote guest speaker on Friday, April 17. While space is limited, those interested in attending should contact the
Foundation’s Executive Director Lisa Bendt.
Thank you from the Multnomah Athletic Foundation
Proceeds from the Merritt Truax Memorial Northwest Shootout benefit the Multnomah Athletic Foundation and their
efforts supporting youth scholarships and community grants in the Portland metropolitan area. We hope to see you at
the games!
For more information, please visit www.multnomahathleticfoundation.com.
Contact Lisa Bendt at 503-517-2350 or [email protected].
2015 Cress Scholarship Contest – Rules & Eligibility
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Open to all students with a minimum 3.0 GPA from schools with an Oregon All-Star player, host Liberty High
School, and any of the 28 Portland-area high schools associated with the Multnomah Athletic Club’s Scholar
Athlete program.
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Registration will be Saturday, April 18 upon admission to the games (admission will be free).
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Students must be present to win.
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Awarded students will be required to maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA in order to receive the scholarship upon
high school graduation.