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Salute the Stars 2009

5/8/2009 2:26:00 PM

The John Lynch Foundation hosted the 11th Annual Salute the Stars awards luncheon on Thursday, May 7th, 2009...

The John Lynch Foundation hosted the 11th Annual Salute the Stars awards luncheon on Thursday, May 7th, 2009 on the field at INVESCO Field to recognize Denver's brightest young student-athletes. More than 700 guests were present, including keynote speaker, and former Denver Bronco legend, Ed McCaffrey.

The Salute the Stars luncheon is the culmination of the Star of the Month program, which rewards student-athletes on a monthly basis for the academic achievements, athletic achievements and community involvement.  Each of the monthly winners along with their parents are invited to attend the event, and corporate tables and sponsorships are also sold. The following awards were presented:

Star of the Year award - chosen out of the pool of monthly winners

• Brynn Churchfield, Campus Middle School
• Joey Matarazzo, Laredo Middle School
• Ellen Hackstaff, St. Mary's Academy
• Dan Spond, Columbine High School
• Brandon Smith, Prairie View High School

Most Valuable Teacher / Coach of the Year award - nominated by the student-athletes, each winner receives $500 for personal use and $500 Sports Authority gift card to be used toward the program of their choice.

• Jon Novotny, Thornton Middle School
• Andy Lowry, Columbine High School

Lynch Family Legacy Scholarships - awards $10,000 to each recipient to be used at a four year university

• Anneke Allen, Eaglecrest High School
• Kyle Lontine, Legacy High School
• Efrem Woldu, Thomas Jefferson High School
• Kirstyn Johnson, Ralston Valley High School

Exceptional Star of the Year Award, presented by the Anna and John J. Sie Foundation - $5000 awarded to a student-athlete with a physical disability and one with a cognitive disability 

• Brenna Sala, South High School
• Charlie Barenberg, Chaparral High School