Willie Neal
On Sunday, Jun 21, 2009, Willie Neal died after being struck by a car from behind while roller skiing in Maine. "Neal and his brother, Eliot, were at the Maine Winter Sports Center training for biathlon in an attempt to qualify for the 2010 U.S. Junior World championship team" (Jackson Hole Daily). Willie's funeral was held on July 11 and a memorial service was held on July 13.
The Willie Neal Environmental Awareness Fund (WNEAF online at www.wnealenvirofund.org/) was created in memory of Willie. "The WNEAF is committed to increasing awareness of the environmental impact of individual behavior and choices" by "promoting responsible choices through education, community involvement, and environmental initiatives."
Willie Neal Award
The Willie Neal Award is given out each year to a Wyoming High School skier. This award is meant to honor his legacy and inspire other Wyoming skiers to make a difference in our State and in our world. A full description of the award is available. The following is a list of the recipients:- Elise Sulser - 2012
Elise is a Senior with a 4.0 Combined Grade Point Average. She is a terrific family member and stands in support of her family and with her Mom who continues a courageous go around with cancer. Elise is THE best teammate I have had in all my years. She supports her team and everyone from the Juniors through the groomer. Even when personal disappointment comes for her, she rallies others and celebrates their successes. Elise has served her school, her community and her family. She is a school leader through her energy and example. She is an advocate for the personal value of everyone through Rachel's Challenge and other efforts. Elise teaches young people to ski and also how to learn, all on her own time. One of the most impressive services that Elise does with no fanfare is her service in Haiti. You can only imagine a Summer lifestyle in Haiti....while training for skiing. She is a dynamic, caring soul. Like Willie, she seeks to serve and make this place better...without any self-promotion. We all have been Blessed to have had Elise in our lives...
Submitted by NCHS Nordic Ski Coach, Bob Matson (Nomination as a pdf) - Bridget Weiner - 2011
The following are articles about Willie
June 23, 2009
- Promising youth dies in crash - Jackson Hole Daily
- Jackson youth killed in Maine - Jackson Hole Daily
- Biathlete Killed While Training In Fort Fairfield - WLBZ2
- Biathlete hit, killed by car while training in County - Bangor Daily News
- Biathlete dies after being hit by car - Bandor Daily News
- Local teen killed in roller skiing accident - 22 Local
- Local athlete killed in Maine road accident - Planet JH