A Beavercreek couple has been awarded the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association’s 2022 Citizens of the Year award. Bob and Vicki Darden were honored during the association’s annual conference and trade show on January 31, 2023. The couple was recognized for their involvement and dedication to youth in the Beavercreek community.
In 1983, Vicki helped to form the Beavercreek Youth Softball Association (BYSA) to promote recreational slow-pitch softball to youth in Beavercreek. The organization started as a small, local activity and has steadily grown over the past four decades. In 1998, after serving as a Colonel in the United States Air Force, Vicki’s husband, Bob, took on a leadership role within the association.
Today, BYSA is preparing for its 40th season and is still led by the Dardens. The organization now has more than 1,400 youth playing co-ed softball, ranging from pre-school aged children through high school seniors.
The Darden’s leadership and passion for BYSA has led others to volunteer as commissioners, coordinators, coaches, and positive role models.
To this day, you can find Bob and Vicki Darden at Rotary Park during the season preparing fields for play, coordinating games, working the concession stand, and admiring the smiles on the faces of the players and spectators.
“Beavercreek’s Parks, Recreation & Culture Division is extremely thankful for the decades of dedication and volunteerism from Bob and Vicki Darden,” said Kim Farrell, parks superintendent. “The Dardens continue to make a difference in our community, making them very deserving of this honor. Please be sure to congratulate them next time you see them at Rotary Park this upcoming BYSA season.”