Sportperson of the Year

OCYSF is known for its annual Sportsperson of the Year banquet, first held at Santa Ana’s Saddleback Inn to honor race car driver Dan Gurney. This event has become a highly anticipated community tradition, celebrating sports figures who inspire youth and lead in their communities.  Rod Carew, Janet Evans, Bob Costas, Tom Lasorda, Jerry West, Teemu Selanne, Matt Leinart, Pete Carroll, Ann Meyers-Drysdale, Jim Nantz, Bill Walsh, Carson Palmer, April Ross, Bruce Rollinson and many more since 1971.

The award, inspired by the cast iron bells of El Camino Real, honors the county’s history and underscores OCYSF’s commitment to the community’s future.