Sportsperson of the Month David Palmer
David Palmer was recognized as Sportsperson of the Month at Monday’s Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table press luncheon.
Palmer, who won a CIF Championship at Santa Barbara High and a State Championship at Ventura College, is a fixture in the local basketball community as the founder of the Vipers youth basketball program.
“He really is a life coach who uses basketball as his vehicle. He’s an incredible young man,” said presenter Dave Pintard, who thanked award sponsor Maho & Prentice Attorneys.
Palmer’s leadership has helped the Vipers program grow from scratch to eight teams.
“Great work David,” said Westmont men’s basketball coach John Moore. “Great work with all the people that you work with in our community. I’m so proud of you.”
Palmer brought three young players and coach Chris Vines to share the spotlight.
“You’ll have to excuse me I’m a little nervous but thank you, this is huge to me,” Palmer said.
“Coaching, you really don’t do it for the money, you do it for the love, or for the community, for the kids, and that’s what I’ve been doing for 15 years,” Palmer said.
“I really appreciate this award but it’s really about the kids,” Palmer said.
