ST. GEORGE – The Huntsman World Senior Games has announced the selection of John “Rosey” Rosander as the new director of sports. He was selected after an extensive search of qualified individuals and will replace Merrill Barney, who retires at the end of the month. Rosander will officially begin his duties on Sept. 30.
Rosander brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Games. For the past 25 years, he has worked as a full-time program coordinator for the City of St. George Recreation Department, overseeing youth football, basketball, volleyball, soccer, track, rugby, golf, softball and baseball. Additionally, he was a part-time recreational director for the City of Hurricane.
Although a new employee, Rosander has already left his mark on the Games as a volunteer for over 25 years. His volunteer service includes stints as director of tennis and the basketball shoot competition. In recognition of his past service to the Games, he is being inducted into the Hall of Fame next month.
“With mixed emotions, I have accepted the job of director of sports at the Huntsman World Senior Games. I have volunteered for the Games for 25 years and competed the last two years. I am so excited to move into the next adventure of my life,” Rosander said. “Unfortunately, I know I will miss watching the future state champions grow up in youth sports. I hope I am around to watch them in the Senior Games when they turn 50!”
The current director of sports, Barney, recently announced his retirement. Barney began working with the Games in 1994 as a volunteer in cycling. It was during that time that he fell in love with the event. A few years later, he was on the paid staff as one of three sports coordinators in charge of 11 sports, including cycling, swimming, tennis, horseshoes and racquetball. Eventually, the job was consolidated into the position he holds now.
“Merrill has been a staple of the Games for almost 20 years. He will definitely be missed,” CEO Kyle M. Case said. “But we’re also very excited to welcome Rosey on board. His years of experience with recreation in St. George will be invaluable. We’re looking forward to his energy and ideas to help us continue to take the Games to the next level.”
The 2013 Huntsman World Senior Games will be held Oct. 7-19 in St. George and surrounding areas. Over 10,000 athletes competing in 27 sports will travel from across the globe to vie for the pinnacle of achievement in 50+ fitness events. More information about this year’s games can be found here.
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