Governor Brewer proud of Arizona's Olympians

Statement by Governor Brewer

Taking Pride in Arizona’s Olympians

 

“As the 2012 Summer Olympic Games draw to a close, I would like to take a moment to express my pride and offer my congratulations to the fine athletes who so honorably represented our nation in London over the past two weeks.   

 

“It has been wonderful fun to root for all of the American athletes, but especially the 70 competitors and coaches with Arizona ties. As it turns out, quite a few of our local Olympians will be bringing medals back with them to the United States.

 

“Arizona could hardly be prouder of our Olympians, including medal winners: Matthew Grevers, who claimed Gold in the 100-meter backstroke and Silver in the 4x100 relay, and joined University of Arizona alumnus Nick Thoman to secure top honors in the 4x100 medley relay; Rebecca Soni, whose 200-meter breast stroke and 4x100 medley scored her not only two Gold medals, but two world records; Arizona State University alumnae Amy LePeilbet and Sydney Leroux, who  helped lead the U.S. women’s soccer team to Gold; swimmers Alyssa Anderson, Breeja Larson and Caitlin Leverenz; Silver medalist archer Brady Ellison; and triple and long-jump medal winner Will Claye. Just this weekend, Team USA claimed Gold medals in men’s and women’s basketball, with contributions by Diana Taurasi of our own Phoenix Mercury, as well as James Harden of ASU and Andre Iguodala of the UA.

 

“Of course, a number of athletes with Arizona connections competed on behalf of home countries other than the United States. Congratulations to medalists Takeshi Matsuda, who represented Japan in swimming to Silver and Bronze medals in the 4x100 medley relay and 200-meter fly; Victoria Azarenka of Belarus, who earned Gold in tennis; and Australia’s Rowie Webster, who won Bronze in Women’s water polo. These athletes may have competed on behalf of their home countries, but we know they hold Arizona in their hearts.

 

“It was a true pleasure and privilege to watch each of our athletes compete. They have made Arizona proud.”