Sept. 28, 2017 – Slinger, WI – This Friday during the Slinger High School homecoming game, the community of Slinger will tip its hats to Dave Sukawaty inducting him into Slinger High School’s Hall of Fame.
“Dave’s just thrilled to be inducted into the Hall of Fame,” said mom, Eileen Sukawaty. “He loves all sports and he doesn’t miss anything.”
Sukawaty will be inducted as a distinguished service member, chosen specifically because of his passion for supporting the school’s sporting events and his adoration for all the people in the community.
Sukawaty has been involved in sports since he attended Slinger High School in the mid 1970’s. He helped where he could and was manager of the Slinger boys’ basketball state-qualifying team.
Sukawaty graduated in 1978 and is still actively involved in today’s activities. Sukawaty runs the scoreboard at the little league park, he takes water to the refs during games, and works the entrance gate during football season.
Because of his involvement, everybody in Slinger knows Sukawaty and everyone says he an exuberantly generous person.
“He’s a gem of a man,” said Daren Sievers, Superintendent of Slinger School District. “He’s at every sporting event. He lives for sports. We have him on staff as a light-duty custodian because he lives and breathes Slinger and the Owls. Slinger is the center of his universe and we all support him.”
Slinger High School Principal Phil Ourada echoed those thoughts. “Dave is Slinger. You will not find another person who cares more about our coaches, athletes and our teams than Dave. He is a special person and has a heart of gold!”
Sukawaty has definitely made a huge impact on school staff. Athletic Director Mike Daniels said, “Dave is the epitome of Slinger pride. Everything he does is for Slinger. He’s a great man and a great example of why this community is so supportive of its members.”
The High School’s football and basketball coaches agree. “He’s a good guy. He loves everyone in Slinger and everyone loves him,” Coach Jacklin said. “He’s always in the community doing things for people. Always at games and church and always wants to talk sports. You wouldn’t meet a more upbeat kinda guy. He’s a really positive part of the community and I am just ecstatic he gets to be a part of our Hall of Fame.”
Basketball coach Nate Grimm nodded his head to how impactful Sukawaty has been in the community. “Dave has been a consistent and passionate supporter of Slinger athletics since I came here,” said Grimm. “Dave shows up consistently to all sports and is eager to let you know he’s supporting the team. Dave will often ask coaches ‘Can we do it? Can we win this week?’ Dave works quietly behind the scenes to build relationships with community members, the athletic directors, and officials involved with Slinger sports. Dave’s consistent and passionate support for Slinger athletes and coaches makes him a worthy inductee into the Hall of Fame.”
Sukawaty was tremendously enthusiastic when talking about Friday’s induction. “I was really happy and excited about being chosen,” he said. “I support all sports – I see the teams to every game and to the championships. It’s an honor to be in the Hall of Fame.”
This Friday gives the community of Slinger a chance to turn the tables and shower Sukawaty with the love and respect he has shown them.
Join the community in cheering for Dave and the other Hall of Fame inductees, Dr. John Riesch and Tracy Roever at 6:50 p.m., right before kickoff. After the game ends, a Hall of Fame reception will take place at Scenic View Country Club, 4415 Club Drive in Slinger, where all the inductees will receive a plaque and give a small speech. All events Friday will be open to the public.