Congratulations to Karl Johnson, 2023 winner of the Ruth Van Keuren Good Sportsmanship Award!
Past Award Winners
2022 – Kory Kaye
2021 – Heather Sather
2019 – Sue Kvale
2018 – Kirsten Storlie
2017 – Julie Heller
2016 – Betty Johnson
2015 – Carol Voelker
2014 – Kristine Delago
2013 – Stacy (Medley) Abraham
2012 – Judy Moore
2011 – Bonnie Griep
2010 – Terry Smorch
2009 – Martha Healy
2008 – Diane Clyne
2007 – Leona Hellesvig
2006 – Elizabeth Penning
2005 – Kelly McFaul-Solem
2004 – Jan Poole
2003 – Chris Mosley
Ruth Van Keuren
Ruth Van Keuren, founding member of Minnesota Agility Club, honored all of us with her coaching and friendship through many years in agility. She especially gave of herself to Junior Handlers, writing the first JH book of exercises for USDAA and starting the JH program here in the Upper Midwest. Agility clubs across the nation have modeled their JH program after Ruth’s.
Additionally, Ruth coached all of us regardless of age at ringside. She was a wonderful example, having a kind word for each of us coming out of the ring, and continually encouraging us to do our best for ourselves and most importantly, for our dogs.
Ruth was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in May 2000. She was given 6 weeks to live. The agility community surrounded Ruth with the support she had provided us for so many years while fighting her battle, which lasted 3 more years until August 2003.
MAC honors Ruth and her legacy with this Sportsmanship award. Member nominations are taken during the time MAC members submit their yearly titles for the banquet. The MAC Board selects the recipient each year, revealing their selection at the annual banquet presenting them with a trophy to remember the award. A person may only receive this award once.
MN Agility Club 