Ozzie Smith named speaker for Semoball Awards

On Monday Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith was announced as the celebrity speaker for the Semoball Awards banquet that will be held on June 21 at the Show Me Center.

Semoball.com is a regional sports website contributed to by five daily newspapers in Southeast Missouri.

Smith is one of the most popular former members of the St. Louis Cardinals.

During his 19-year career, he brought a high-level of excitement to the game. His diving plays, clutch hits (Remember the 1985 National League Championship Series game-winning home run and the unforgettable call from Jack Buck?) and trademark back flip were fan favorites.

This is sure to be a memorable night for the athletes, parents, coaches and fans who attend.

VIP tickets went on sale Monday at semoball.com/awards. VIP tickets include a pre-event reception and photo opportunity with Smith and admission to the banquet.

General admission and tickets for parents will go on sale at a later date. Watch the Southeast Missourian and semoball.com/awards for more information.

In January, Semoball started announcements of finalists for fall sports. Finalists in the last fall category, boys cross country, will be announced on semoball.com/awards and Southeast Missouri's five daily newspapers on Thursday. Tune in to SEMO ESPN, 92.9 FM and 1220 and 1470 AM, for discussion of the finalists.

Finalists for winter sports will begin in April, with spring sports to follow in June.

About 200 athletes will be recognized, including athletes in 19 sports categories. Awards will be announced for male and female athlete of the year, academic athlete of the year, best sportsmanship, comeback athlete of the year and coach of the year.

Thanks to presenting sponsor SoutheastHEALTH, title sponsors First Midwest Bank, Harry Blackwell auto dealerships and Technomad and several other leading businesses for their support of the awards banquet.

If you are interested in sponsorships, call 388-3649 or email lpresson@semissourian.com.

Congratulations to all the athletes recognized.