The Tim Parfrey Fair Play Award

Tim Parfrey’s name became locally known when the headline in the Arizona Daily Star read,

“14 YEAR OLD PLAYER DIES ON FIELD AFTER SOCCER MATCH.”

That was the November 2, 1994 edition of the local Tucson newspaper. Tim had been playing his second game of that day, October 30th, and there was no sign that anything was wrong. The games were taking place in Sierra Vista, and were wrapping up the first half of the club soccer season. High school soccer would begin the very next day, and Tim would have tried out for the freshman team at his high school, Canyon Del Oro.

None of that was to be. Tim collapsed at the end of his second game, stopped breathing, and could not be revived. He had an enlarged heart, which had gone undetected, and the effort was too much for him. Sadly, his life was suddenly ended. But Tim had spent his last moments doing the thing he loved most – playing soccer.

His teammates remembered him, all the families in the soccer community came together to support the Parfreys, and we all said our goodbyes to Tim. Tim is remembered fondly, especially when there are kids out on the field somewhere having fun playing soccer.

The TIM PARFREY FAIR PLAY AWARD places increased emphasis on the importance of player, coach and sideline conduct. Game officials will rate the player, coaches and sidelines following each game and present this rating along with the game card to the site Field Marshall. In the event of a tie score at the conclusion of the Tournament, the winner will be determined by a blind draw conducted by the Tournament Director or other Tournament official.

Coaches are encouraged to remind player, parents and other supporters, of the importance of good sportsmanship. Coaches are responsible for the conduct of players and spectators while at the CDO Challenge Cup. Good sportsmanship remains a priority on the soccer field, and all are asked to honor the memory of Tim through their positive actions on our tournament weekend and throughout the season.

Previous Recipients