This is the time of the year that we pause to show our appreciation for those who work with us, who help us out and who are our partners in the sports industry. I’m sure you have your list of co-workers, sponsors and event partners, and we’d like to add a few of our own to present holiday gifts:

First, a nice bouquet of flowers to those in the service industry who make sure that sporting events go on smoothly. From the people who set up the venue to those who work the concessions, we know that our events couldn’t happen without you. You often work behind the scenes and we appreciate everything you do.

Second, to our friends in youth sports: gasoline gift cards to the parents and coaches who drive their teams to practice and to holiday tournaments, sometimes hundreds of miles, to make sure their kids get great instruction and good competition. Youth sports are the lifeblood of what so many of us do, and your dedication cannot be measured in dollars and cents. Thanks for giving your kids a chance to live their dreams.

Third, some extra caffeine goes to those who volunteer for our events. Hundreds, sometimes thousands of volunteers are needed to get these events up and running, giving thousands of hours of their time in the process. Whether it’s for the love of the sport or your dedication of giving back, you keep events up and running. We appreciate everything you do.

And finally, fireworks and confetti go to you, our partners and members here at NASC. Your feedback, ideas and participation in what we do keep our organization the best in the sports events business. We are so grateful to have you as part of the NASC and we are excited for the opportunities ahead in 2015.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays from all of us at NASC!