As we bring an unforgettable 2026 season to a close, it is with great pride, joy, and gratitude that we present the inaugural Laurie McHugh “Be the Blue” Award.
This award was created to honor the memory of our dear co-founder, Laurie McHugh, who passed away in August 2023. When she died, we lost a leader, a cheerleader, a fierce Bucks supporter and a dear friend. But her joy, her fire and her loyalty did not disappear. It lives on in YOU, our dear Bucks members. Laurie embodied the absolute best of our club with positivity, genuine team spirit, and a selfless dedication to lifting everyone up around her, both on and off the water. In truth, we see a little bit of Laurie in every single paddler in our organization. Whether it is a kind word and helping hand, cheering loudly from the sidelines, encouraging words offered in the boat, a welcoming smile for new members, or the the shared joy of crossing the finish line together. That shared heart is what makes Bucks Dragon Boat such a special family.
This year, six remarkable individuals stood out for living out those values and carrying Laurie’s passion into everything they do for our teams. We are honored to recognize our 2026 “Be the Blue” Award Recipients:
Ascent: Eileen Matthews
Firestorm: Matt Harris
Force: Melanie Reshetar
Freedom: Kelly Gustovich
Fury: Nancy Cook
Fusion: Cindy Manzo
To each of our six recipients: thank you for your commitment, your heart, and for showing us every day what it truly means to “Be the Blue.” You inspire us all to bring our best selves to the boat and support one another every step of the way. Laurie’s legacy continues to touch all of us, whether you were lucky to have known her personally or only knew of her through stories told. She was truly one of a kind!
Please join us in celebrating and congratulating these six deserving Bucks Dragon Boat members!
