USA Volleyball mourns the loss of Wink Davenport, a remarkable athlete and esteemed volleyball official. Wink Davenport, fondly known as “Wink,” passed away on May 3, leaving behind an indelible legacy. Let’s take a moment to celebrate his life and contributions to the sport.
A Legacy Worth Remembering
Wink Davenport’s volleyball journey began in the late 1950s at the Binghamton, N.Y. YMCA. After excelling in basketball and golf at Wesleyan University, he relocated to California. There, he earned a coveted spot on the U.S. Men’s National Team and achieved remarkable success.
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In 1967, Wink Davenport proudly secured a gold medal for the U.S. Men’s National Team at the Pan American Games. The following year, he proudly represented his country at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, contributing to the team’s victories, including a memorable 3-2 win against the Soviet Union, who ultimately clinched the gold medal.
Wink Davenport’s achievements extended beyond the Olympics. He participated in the 1969 FIVB World Cup before retiring from competitive play in 1971. Notably, he captained Santa Monica’s USVBA club team to a national title and received All-America honors.
A Lifetime of Dedication
Wink Davenport’s passion for volleyball persisted long after he hung up his player’s jersey. In 1970, he obtained national certification as a referee, marking the beginning of a prestigious officiating career. He officiated at various international events, including world junior championships, world cups, world championships, and the 1988 Olympic Games. Additionally, he presided over several NCAA men’s and women’s championship matches.
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Not only did Wink Davenport leave an impact on the court, but he also contributed to volleyball at the administrative level. From 1971 to 1977, he served on the U.S. Volleyball Association’s board, which ultimately evolved into USA Volleyball. During this time, he held the position of vice president from 1973 to 1976. Internationally, he served as the secretary of the International Federation of Volleyball Officials and acted as the referee delegate to the 1996 Olympics.
Wink Davenport’s unwavering commitment to volleyball earned him numerous accolades and recognition. In 1986, he became one of the inaugural recipients of the Glen G. Davies Referee Service Award presented by USA Volleyball. A decade later, he received the esteemed Wilbur H. Peck Referee – Emeritus Award, the highest honor for officials within USAV. Twelve years following that, he was honored with the James E. Colman USA National Team Award, which celebrated his exceptional performance and unwavering dedication to the USA national team programs. His contributions were further recognized through his induction into the Southern California Indoor Volleyball Hall of Fame and Wesleyan University Athletics’ Hall of Fame.
Honoring Wink Davenport
To honor Wink Davenport’s memory and continue his passionate pursuit of advancing officials in volleyball, the SCVA has established a GoFundMe campaign. The funds raised will support the education and development of officials, ensuring that Wink’s legacy lives on.
Additionally, those who wish to honor Wink Davenport can make a donation to either the Orange County (Calif.) Make-A-Wish Foundation or the Southern California Indoor Volleyball Hall of Fame.
Tributes to Wink Davenport
Wink Davenport’s impact on the volleyball community resonated deeply with those who had the privilege of knowing him. Here are a few heartfelt tributes:
Former USA Volleyball CEO Doug Beal
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“Wink was a special part of USA Volleyball and a very dear friend! He played a key role in supporting the USA National Team during our time in San Diego in the 1980s and 1990s. His passion and unwavering support made a significant difference in our team’s success. Wink’s sense of humor, friendship, and wise advice will be dearly missed.”
Teammate Rudy Suwara
“Wink Davenport was not only a formidable athlete but also a cherished friend. His skill and height at the net were unmatched in the late fifties on the east coast. Together with the Suwara brothers, John, Rudy, and Ernie, we played against the Binghamton YMCA in tournaments. Wink’s move to California led to his selection for the 1968 Olympic Team, where they won gold. Losing Wink Davenport is truly heartbreaking, especially after he was posthumously selected for the Southern California Indoor Volleyball Hall of Fame.”
FAQs
What were Wink Davenport’s notable achievements as a volleyball player?
Throughout his career, Wink Davenport achieved remarkable success as a volleyball player. Notable achievements include winning a gold medal with the U.S. Men’s National Team at the 1967 Pan American Games and representing the United States at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City. He played a crucial role in the team’s victories, including a memorable win over the Soviet Union.
How did Wink Davenport contribute to volleyball as an official?
After retiring as a player, Wink Davenport transitioned to officiating. He obtained national certification as a referee in 1970 and went on to officiate at various international events, including world junior championships, world cups, world championships, and the 1988 Olympic Games. His expertise and dedication to the sport were widely recognized, as he also officiated numerous NCAA men’s and women’s championship matches.
Summary
In honor of the late Wink Davenport, a celebrated Olympian and esteemed volleyball official, we reflect on his immense contributions to the sport. From his iconic performances as a player to his influential role as an official and administrator, Wink Davenport’s legacy lives on. Let us remember his passion and dedication to volleyball, ensuring that his impact continues to inspire future generations. To support his vision for developing officials, consider contributing to the GoFundMe campaign established by the SCVA. Let’s keep the spirit of Wink Davenport alive in the volleyball community.
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