Doug Brush
Contributor | 2014
Doug originated from Northern Illinois, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree from Western Illinois University in 1976 in Recreation and Park Administration. The development of Therapeutic Recreation was just starting during this time. It was while in college he first experienced working with special populations and really enjoyed it.
Doug credits Bonnie Zucker for introducing him to the Georgia Wheelchair Sports Association, attending the 1980 Georgia Invitational Wheelchair Games held in Marietta, Georgia where he was in charge of the weightlifting equipment. In 1981 the Georgia and Alabama Associations merged to become the Dixie Wheelchair Athletic Association and Doug volunteered in weightlifting and athletics in the first annual Dixie Games. In 1982 he took the National Wheelchair Officials Associations (NWOA) officials test for Athletics and Weightlifting under Ronnie Pulley’s supervision.
Doug became a member of the Dixie Board of Directors in 1982 and continued through the time of his induction. He became Treasurer in 1987 until 2005. From 1987-1998 Doug served as Dixie Games Director for six years, Games Registration/Chair Person for four years and also served as volunteer coordinator for several years. The Dixie Games moved between Georgia and Alabama every year with Doug officiating every year except 2000.
Another role Doug performed for several years for the Dixie Games was transporting and storing the Dixie equipment at the Sheppard Spinal Center with help from other Board members. Doug’s commitment to wheelchair sports stretched outside the Dixie Region as he officiated track, field and weightlifting from 1989-1994 at the North Texas Wheelchair Games with Jim Hayes as Meet Director. National Games he officiated at in weightlifting and athletics include: Junior Nationals in Birmingham, Alabama in 1996; the Vet Games held in Atlanta in the early 90’s; the US Paralympics National Track and Field Championships in Atlanta; and the Victory Games(CP) in Georgia during the late 80’s and early 90’s. When Dixie hosted the National Delegate Assembly in 1991 Doug assisted Linda Priest with the planning and transportation.
Doug Brush was always willing to do whatever and go the extra mile to ensure a quality competition and experience for all.
