Bertha Lucas, a legendary figure in USA Volleyball, has sadly passed away at the age of 102. USA Volleyball extends its heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and fans. Bertha, a resident of Pacific Palisades, Calif., made significant contributions to the sport throughout her life, leaving a lasting impact on the volleyball community.
A Legacy of Excellence and Dedication
Bertha Lucas’s involvement in volleyball went beyond being a player and coach. She was a grassroots organizer, promoter, clinician, and a board member of both USA Volleyball and the U.S. Olympic Committee. Bertha was also a surrogate mother to numerous players and the biological mother of USAV All-American player Nancy Lucas Evans and two-time Olympian Patti Lucas Bright, who sadly passed away in 2004.
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A Lifelong Passion for the Game
Bertha’s dedication to the sport was unwavering. She attended an impressive 65 consecutive USA Volleyball Open National Championships from 1953 to 2018. Even after she could no longer serve overhand at the age of 85, Bertha continued to attend the Opens as a coach, sponsor, and enthusiastic spectator.
In a 2018 interview with USA Volleyball, Bertha expressed her love for the game and the joy of reconnecting with friends and fellow volleyball enthusiasts. For her, the main joy was witnessing the next generation of players and enjoying the camaraderie that the sport fostered.
A Pillar of the Volleyball Community
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Born in Chicago and later relocating to California, Bertha played a pivotal role in the growth of volleyball. She was instrumental in establishing the Great Lakes Region and served on its board of directors. Later, Bertha became an influential figure in the Southern California Volleyball Association.
Bertha’s contributions did not go unnoticed. USA Volleyball bestowed upon her numerous awards and honors. In 1966, she received the USAV Leader in Volleyball Award. In 1980, she became the inaugural recipient of the Harry E. Wilson Award for community service. The following year, Bertha was recognized with the prestigious Dr. Harold T. Friermood “Frier” Award, the highest annual honor awarded by USA Volleyball.
In 1995, Bertha was presented with the All-Time Great Coach Award, and the Pioneer Division coaching award was named in her honor. Her remarkable achievements culminated in 2018 when she was awarded the Mintonette Medallion of Merit at the International Volleyball Hall of Fame in Holyoke, Mass. Her granddaughter, Bonnie Bright, accepted the award on her behalf.
A Lasting Impact
Bertha Lucas’s influence reached far beyond her own accomplishments. She inspired multiple generations of volleyball players to reach their full potential. Her legacy lives on through the success of her daughter, Olympian Patti Bright, and her granddaughter, Bonnie Bright, who both followed in her footsteps as players and coaches.
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Bertha’s love for the game and her dedication to nurturing the sport will forever be remembered by the volleyball community. Her impact on the lives of countless players is a testament to her enduring legacy.
FAQs
Who was Bertha Lucas?
Bertha Lucas was a legendary figure in USA Volleyball, known for her contributions as a player, coach, grassroots organizer, and promoter. She served on the boards of both USA Volleyball and the U.S. Olympic Committee and was a beloved surrogate mother to many players.
What awards did Bertha Lucas receive?
Bertha Lucas received numerous accolades throughout her career. She was awarded the USAV Leader in Volleyball Award, the Harry E. Wilson Award for community service, and the Dr. Harold T. Friermood “Frier” Award, among others. The coaching award in the Pioneer Division is named after her, and she was presented with the Mintonette Medallion of Merit at the International Volleyball Hall of Fame.
What was Bertha Lucas’s lasting impact?
Bertha Lucas’s impact on the volleyball community was profound. Her dedication to the sport inspired generations of players to excel. Her daughters, including Olympian Patti Bright, and granddaughter, Bonnie Bright, continued her legacy as players and coaches.
Summary
Bertha Lucas, a USA Volleyball legend, has passed away at the age of 102. She made significant contributions to the sport as a player, coach, and organizer. Bertha’s love for volleyball and her dedication to nurturing the next generation of players left an indelible mark on the sport. Her legacy will be remembered by the countless lives she touched and inspired.
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