University of Akron Zips basketball coach Keith Dambrot was the featured speaker for the Akron Rotary Club on June 11^th.  Dambrot, an Akron native, entertained a packed house that included Rotarians, U of A administration, alumni and donors to the program.  Many folks brought their children for the up close and personal interaction.  The coach addressed the current and future state of the Zips basketball program and mid-majors, in general.  He believes we aren’t far away from seeing a mid-major win a national championship and “it might as well be the Zips!”  He is also still very close to Lebron James and had very insightful comments and observations.

The Akron community is very fortunate to have a coach like Dambrot.  His commitment to the area and strong desire to make Akron a destination of choice really resonated with a club full of members with a similar perspective. 

The enjoyable lunch was capped with an unexpected surprise.  Club President Bill Manby, Jr. was presented the “Peace Through Service 2012-13 Presidential Citation” from Rotary International President Sakuji Tanaka.  The Akron Rotary Club was 1 of 3 clubs in a district of over 50 clubs to earn this distinction.  The club also received the AZ Baker award.

The Akron Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at noon at Portage Country Club.  Guests are always welcome. 

Pictured is Club President Bill Manby, Jr. with Coach Dambrot and Bill’s sons Greyson (age 9) and Ashton (age 12).