It was truly a Fowler spotlight Saturday evening at the Denver Coliseum. The Lady Grizzlies ended their 28-3 season with a picture perfect win against Colorado Springs School for Fowler's eleventh state volleyball championship. But just prior to that victory, the Colorado High School Coach's Association awarded former Grizzly volleyball coach, Vin Mizer, with the prestigious Pioneer Award.
"It's really all about the girls," stated Mizer following his acceptance of the award and this year's championship win. "I'm just glad to be here tonight and be a part of this program."
Mizer's career record, 684 wins to 82 losses, speaks for itself. In addition Mizer had 21 total state appearances, 9 state championships; 1981, 83, 88, 92, 93, 95, 97, 98, 99 and eight undefeated seasons. Twice he was named Colorado Class A Coach of the Year and seven times Colorado Class 2A Coach of the Year. He was also recognized as National High School Athletic Coaches Association Coach of the Year and in 2000 was presented with the Colorado Coaches of Girls Sports Hall of Fame Award.
Dusty Lotrich, varsity member of the 1988 state champion team and head coach of the 2005 state champion team, says, "Vin has laid a phenomenal foundation for Fowler volleyball and has touched a lot of young ladies' lives. If anyone deserves the Pioneer Award, it's him."
Between the years of 1992 and 1995 the Grizzlies boasted a 92 game winning streak, claiming the state title three times and runner-up once. Cami Manchego, a member of the team during those years agrees with Lotrich, "I am so thankful for the experiences I had while playing for Vin. He had a huge impact on my life. He taught mental toughness and stressed positivity and determination. Many of the skills I learned back then I use everyday now. Thank you, Vin."
Susie Gilbert said, "Coach Vin Mizer touched my life and the lives of so many other athletes. He not only taught us about volleyball but life as well. Coach Mizer is amazingly humble for all that he has achieved, always giving credit to others. His love and passion for the game is very evident when you look at all of his coaching accomplishments. I'm very honored to have played for Coach Mizer and to have the opportunity to be a part of Fowler Volleyball and its incredible history. Coach Mizer played an integral role in the awesome tradition that is now Fowler High School Athletics."
