For Audrey and John
The photos on this page, the sentiments below, and this special video are dedicated to the heart and soul of our 4th Avenue volleyball community. We greatly admire their spirit and deeply appreciate all they have done.
Court 1 Dedication to John Thomas
On August 20, 2023, Court 1 was dedicated to the memory of John Thomas.
Memories and Gratitude from the Tribute Party in 2016
I truly don't know where to begin. I've known you both as long as you've known each other. I've known John even longer!
Most people will talk about your hospitality and your good natures. You've both extended yourselves to promote friendships on and off the courts.
But, I want to include some references to "old times" - playing volleyball at West Valley on Thursday nights and ending up afterwards at Hannigan's for ribs and beer (and maitais). Or making the trip to HOT Fresno for volleyball and jumping in the river between games. Or one memorable group sleep-over at John's house - the house before the beach house. We're talking back in the Dennis Hare days. ( I know, I'm dating myself...)
And then there are the "newer" memories. Trips to visit you two in Montana - jumping off the bridge in Missoula, hiking in Glacier National Park and finding bears, and seeing Yellowstone for the very first time! Not to mention numerous outings to Hula's - be it Santa Cruz or Maui! Oh, and introducing me to my new favorite sport - tennis.
You've been phenomenal friends and a very big part of my life. Thank you for always being there.
More fun times to come! What's our next adventure?
Oh, and I neglected to mention the Mexico trip and my inferior guarding of John's backpack and wallet. And you hardly ever mention it.....
Sue Holmes
I am a late comer to the 4th Avenue volleyball community, yet, better late than never. I was first introduced to John and Audrey a few years ago when they hosted a Century Tournament After Party. The moment I walked into their home I could feel the many years of love and warmth that permeated throughout. Thank you for opening your hearts and your home. I am honored to a be a part of your volleyball family.
MaryBeth McLaughlin
John and Audrey
Thank you for all the wonderful memories. Back playing volleyball again has reminded me of the potlucks held at your home. I appreciate you allowing us to store nets at your home. This act has helped to creat a larger volleyball family than we know. Many young and older players continue to play-on as the weekend hassle of going to Main on a crowded day is not worth the effort.
It has been nice seeing the two of you walking and playing these past few weekends. Again thank you for being such wonderful people.
Glynn
John & Audrey -
Thank you for your contributions to beach volleyball in Santa Cruz and a special acknowledgement for the 4th Ave courts. The players that play at 4th Ave have a bond and comradery as we share our weekends doing the thing we love most.
Mark Failor
While playing in one of my first 4th Ave tournaments I was bemoaning the distance to the restrooms. Someone (not John or Audrey) encouraged me to use the restroom in their home saying something like -- really, they don't mind. I thought to myself 'who are these trusting people?' And now years later I'm so happy to know them both and call them my friends. Wishing you much peace, love & happiness.
Carol M
Dear John and Audrey. I moved to Santa Cruz to take Phil Kaplan's beach v-ball classes at the turn of the millennium and I'll always remember and cherish your bright and encouraging spirits. It was a joy playing with you in Phil's classes and later as friends. You taught me about the art of beach volleyball and about the fun and camaraderie that is at its core. You were the supreme hosts at your welcoming house parties, and 4th Avenue v-ball reflects your generosity and the supportive beach v-ball community that you have built. See you at the 4th Ave Century Tournament! All my love
Bill Head
When I think about John and Audrey, the first thing that comes to mind ,is their genuine love of the community that has evolved around 4th ave. They seem to know everyone and are loved by all. Probably my strongest memory of early(relatively) 4th ave , was John's ability to take control in the middle of a game. If he was down by a few points, he would start serving with a big windup of his arm, and you knew that you were in trouble.
The other thing I remember, (even more impressive) is that his (and Audrey's) sense of sportsmanship. I never saw anger or jealousy or giving up on a game. I was always made to feel like an equal partner, even though in the beginning I was far from it. My life has been made richer through knowing the 4th ave crowd, and John and Audrey will always be part my favorite volleyball memories...
Bob Frank
Dearest John and Audrey -
Cheers to the most Volleyball-compatible couple ever to grace the courts at 4th Avenue and pioneers of the Century Tournament. Always upbeat with positive attitudes, nary a discouraging word. Thank you for voluntarily serving as keepers of the "Center of the Universe", I mean 4th avenue volleyball nets and opening your home to host numerous gatherings, celebrating our wins as well as our losses both on the court and in life. Slide shows, conversations, food and "refreshments" always complimented the festivities. Most memorable were "partays" following tournaments like the Bret Gardener, the Lizard, Fool's Follie. Those of us who were included in their extended family 15 years ago, celebrated John's 60th year on the planet and were treated to a demonstration of Audrey and John's deep love and devotion to each other. Through underwater photos, from John's younger days, we all learned that it is possible to not gain an ounce after high school graduation. All of their "famous house partays" featured culinary, hunting and gathering skills of all. Cuisine featured local grains, veggies, fruit, seafood and more. Highlights included John's famous bread pudding with hot buttered rum, Rolf's freshly harvested oysters and abalone, salmon on the barbie, microbrews before they were invented, and you could almost always count on John's burnt... I mean, toasted garlic bread. Looking forward to celebrating with you all, in honor of two very special friends.
Madeline
Ever since I have been playing beach volleyball, John Thomas has been out there on Main Beach with a welcome smile and an extra ball. His killer cut shot, terrific high lob and devilish dinks all earned him lots of points playing Court 1 even with a rough and tumble woman at his side. He made me shine out on the court and always enjoyed a good beer, laugh and shwarma at the Beach Shack with the volleyball gang afterwards. As time has gone on, I have so enjoyed time with Audrey and John at 4th Avenue beach enjoying the sand and sun and in their welcoming home over potlucks, friends and drinks. They are the epitome of the humble, loving, passionate volleyball couple - the best kind of people in the world as far as I am concerned. I love you guys!!!
Jen Astone
Audrey and John,
We are happy and proud to be part of the people that appreciate your trusting heart, friendship and the love of volleyball at 4th.
Javier, Kristina, Truman and Sofia
Wow what a privilege to be able to honor two such awesome people. John and Audrey are a rare exception in this world - a couple that still love and enjoy each other as much as they did before they play volleyball together when the game is over. It has been a real joy to be a part of the legacy that they have in large part created and nurtured. You guys are the best.
Baldo
John - I will always be grateful for the years you and I played volleyball together. I was looking over my collection of pictures, and was amazed at how much time I spent at 4th ave. and how many memories were created there. Thank you so much for being a part of my life.
Pete
At the end of Phil's class one day, I noticed a lanky man in a blue hat sitting with his back against the post. My first thought was, "I'll never be good enough to play with that guy." When I saw John play, I was impressed by his offense and killer cut shot, but even more so by his defense. "Yes, I got that!" he'd yell as he ran for some tough shot or shanked pass. (The court was a lot bigger in those days.) I was impressed again when he was nice enough to invite beginners like me to join him on Tuesday mornings. (That morning group is still going 16 years later.)
When I met Audrey I could see how well they matched. After I learned that she was from Montana, I noticed the Neil Young song "Cowgirl in the Sand" would play in my head when I'd see her at the beach. What a great couple. Thanks, you two for being the patron saints of 4th Ave, for inventing the Century Tournament, and for all the great pot lucks at your house.
Don and Erin
Dear Audrey and John, Audrey you are an inspiration in finding the right career for yourself and John, you were always the one going from a sweet smile to your "I'm going to win this game for you" eyes behind he dark glasses. I enjoyed all the years we played in our Saturday foursome at main beach with Don. Happiness and hugs to you both, Anne
Anne Berne
One bright winter day shortly after the calendar flipped to a new millennium, John changed my life by inviting me to play at Fourth Avenue. I'd played a few times at Main Beach since arriving in Santa Cruz and had gotten an inkling of a mystical place not far away where the locals played and I might someday be accepted. And then, ever so graciously, John welcomed me into that extraordinary place hallelujah!
Since then I've played countless games and every time I'm grateful for John's invitation. For a couple of months in 2008 I even got a little closer to heaven when Audrey and John let me stay at their house while I was writing my book on global warming and they were vacationing In Montana. Once Kona figured out I knew where the dog treats work, we had a great time together.
Without Audrey and John there might still be volleyball courts on the beach below their house, but I wonder whether the civility and camaraderie of the players would be the same. All I know for sure is they've set a shining example that I will forever try my best to follow.
Chuck
Without even knowing it, John & Audrey, you have been mentors & idols for both Sean & I for many, many years - simply by the grace of who you are; your constant kindness & of course the exuberant energy. Thanks for being a living example of what a stable, loving couple who enjoy every moment-they-are-in looks like! We will always treasure how welcoming you always are when you see us walk onto the beach. Even as rare an occasion it may have been for Sean to grace Main Beach, John you always greeted him and made him feel welcome. You have always made us both feel like family, on the beach or at your home. We love you both!
Lesley & Sean
Thanks to John and Audrey for all their support of the volleyball community over the years. I learned to play down at 4th avenue. I remember my early days playing with John and him (very kindly) pointing out some issues with my platform. That tolerance for meeting me where I was and teaching me was an important influence on my love of the game. Best wishes to you both!
Nico Peruzzi
John and Audrey are the heart, soul, benefactors, guardians, and spirit of 4th Ave volleyball. Kindness, good times, healthy fun. So many great memories. John's cut shot. Audrey's bamboozler serves. Watching the 49ers, when they were good, at their house after playing volleyball and recording the game on a VCR. Don't tell us the score! John saying he would drink a beer after each 49er touchdown. He rarely was able to follow through on that because scores were too high and he had just played many games of volleyball. John helping me pick out the beer for Denise's and my wedding by a taster pool play "tourney" at 99 Bottles where 2 tasters would advance to the next round. That was a lot of beer! Audrey loving our kids. And, all the great parties at their house. I feel so very lucky to know John and Audrey and be a part of the 4th Ave community.
Bruce Jaffe
To my Dear Friends Audrey and John ~
John...I'll always remember the sparkle in your eyes and the smile on your face when we met on High Street. We did find Audrey finally...right where we left her and her bike with a flat tire.
Audrey...Thank you so much for the consideration and good advice you've shared with me through the years. You haven't steered me wrong yet! : )
You two have been such a good example of a successful and lasting relationship. I see you as not only in love but good friends as well. Since my 1st Century VB Tournament, 15 plus years ago, I've noticed that you guys can tease without being hurtful and show affection for each other without words.
John and Audrey your sharing and openness to the local VB community has been
a sweet gift. Thank you and love to you both
Austin Stowell
You have been an inspiration to all of volleyball community here in Santa Cruz. I appreciate your leadership in launching such a wonderful 4th avenue volleyball venue, storing of the nets at your house and hosting all the wonderful parties after the tournaments. I enjoy seeing you both out on the beach peppering and playing ball with us. Thank you so much for all your support and care for all of us volleyball lovers.
Iraj
Dearest John and Dearest Audrey!
I can't accurately tick off all of the wonderful events that I have enjoyed with you because I rely on photos for my memories and I rarely took my camera to the sand.
I do know that I started learning to play volleyball in 1997 and it is safe to say that my admiration for you both started as soon as I met you.
I remember being so impressed by John riding his bike down to the beach and then playing more games than me time and time again. From his example, I set high expectations for myself.
I've used your bathroom, I've retrieved nets from and returned nets to garbage cans and a shed. I've played against your team at Brett Gardner tourneys. I may have even played with John one year... or maybe I was the winning B to draw John at a Fool's Folly tourney - either way, I remember John chasing down a lot of my shanked passes and sets with such a positive attitude. You were at David and my wedding and celebrated our first game of married volleyball with us on Main Beach just hours after the ceremony! I have been to your home for countless birthday and holiday potlucks - it is my favorite place to attend these events...to walk through that beautiful door up the stairs into a warm, welcoming, festive aura of LOVE. Thank you for hosting our "Around the World" photo show! It was amazing to share my pictures with so many enthusiastic people! Recently, I have the pleasure of chatting about any and all topics while hiking with Audrey.
I know you both as soft spoken, genuine, generous and caring people that are endlessly active and adventurous. I strive to BE what both of you ARE.
Thank you for the many years of friendship and for your contributions to our community - both Santa Cruz and volleyball. I am so honored to know you both and I look forward to our continued friendship and the adventures it will bring!
Much Love
Chandra
John, so tall and graceful. Audrey, so elegant and contemplative. These are the adjectives I think of when I think of you. Your hospitality and generosity have touched so many. You both have made quite an impression on me. Thank you a million times!
Carol Quitzau
John and Audrey or Audrey and John, both ways of addressing you works. Most couples you always say one name first, but you complement each other in ways that make that irrelevant. Being a relative newcomer to the 4th Ave. scene (a mere 9 years ago), it didn't take long for me to realize you both were an integral part of what made this slice of paradise special. You treat everyone you come in contact with like family. Neither of you are preachy, but instead inspire others to look at things differently by your socially-responsible actions. Like so many others who have played with both of you on your beach with nets stored in your backyard and crossed the threshold to your welcoming home, you've made me a better partner AND person through your example. Thank you!
Tom Farmer
John and Audrey,
The only couple who could play harmoniously and successfully together.
Audrey, the social worker, setting queen, giving John that perfect set, high, on, and outside. John, answering in his traditional, disciplined way, hitting straight down the line, untouched, for the point.
Oh, and by the way, I just realized that I have been to more parties at John and Audrey's than any other place in my life.
Thanks for the good times.
Paul Bellina
Dear John, some of favorite memories are playing with you Tuesday mornings. You are the best partner, always positive and calm and you could chase down all my crazy passes. Audrey you are a beautiful person and so much stronger than you think. I am so happy that you introduced me to Missoula and Glacier. I have loved traveling with you guys and hope to have many trips in the future.
With love
Paula Mierau
To John: Some of my best vb games have been with you. We just click. There are some special vb games that we have shared where we were not the favored to win, but we did. Those were some special and memorable moments. It is so easy to play with you. You bring out the best in my game, my vb abilities. I feel safe and secure as your partner and play with grace when I'm with you. It has been such a pleasure to get to know you. Much love to you and Audrey today. I am so proud to call you my friend and to get to share you with this amazing vb community that we are a part of.
To Audrey: You have opened your home to me for women's clothing swaps, potlucks, and to some great parties. I have felt included and accepted over the years. I really like you (and John). When I first joined our vb community in 2001, I was insecure that I would not fit in. Over the years I have grown to feel very entwined with this community, and I feel you and John are at the heart of this joy that we share. I have much love for you.
Lisa and Neal
You have been one of the most inspirational men in my life! I have been a fan of yours since we first met at Main Beach! Audrey, you have been such a quiet force of strength and support to all of the volleyball community and more. I think the world of both of you and thank you for creating such fun and amazing memories for myself...and so many others too! From the bottom of my heart and within my soul I thank you both with sincere gratitude and love.
Charmaine
John and Audrey -
Forever growing! From the volleyball beginnings, Audrey and John have created a circle of friends who get closer and have crazier adventures every year. First they made us all feel truly at home in their Santa Cruz home - hosting the most awesome parties, and also letting us just drop by to use their bathroom. Then they opened up their Montana house and shared the ranch and all the outdoor adventures of Glacier National Park - and we discovered the classic-car, cow-girl side of Audrey and the tractor-driving, chainsaw-wielding side of John. Now we are on to international traveling adventures and know where in Cuba to find the best food (Matanzas), and the best showers (Sancti Spiritus), the absolute worst toilets (Hanabanilla), the best snorkeling (La Boca), the best waterfalls (Banao), the best caves (Bellamar), and the best lobster (wherever John is eating). We so look forward to more hikes, more craft projects, more laughter, and most of all, more just hanging out together!
With love
Stacy Kim
To John: I remember the 1st game of volleyball I ever played with John. Although I had known John for a few years we had never played a game together. At the time I was a confirmed right-side player so when John called over needing a partner he padded it with *come on Susie you're a natural left-side player*. I figured what the heck if I play awful I can simply blame it on playing on the left side. From that day forward John became one of my favorite partners ever. And if you've ever played with John you would know that it didn't matter how bad you shanked a ball, how bad your set was or if you were playing your wrong side.... it was always going to be John's fault if he couldn't make the play!!!
To Audrey: Although I've known Audrey for many years we've gotten especially close the last couple of years through hiking. I'm always sad when they leave for Montana in the Summer because not only do I miss our hikes and talks but also our craft time, tennis & future bike rides and pickle ball.
Audrey is truly unique. You may think of her as slightly shy and soft spoken, very feminine in a good way.... but take her to Montana and put her in a pair of cowboy boots and look out! There is nothing that tall walking, big talking cowgirl can't do!!!
To Both: Thank you for all the fun times and fun parties at your house over the years. And of course the week Paula and I spent in Montana will always be *MEMORABLE*
I love you both!!!
Susie Kaplan
John and Audrey, I have nothing but positive memories of both of you over the three decades of vball we have shared. From the tournaments and regular daily games to the parties afterwards at your home (where we suddenly have a hard time recognizing each other from the beach *cleaned-up and with clothes*). Whether playing with either of you or against both of you, it was always smiles, always laughs. Please know that your generosity and the attitude you set for 4th Ave is very much appreciated in more ways than we can state. It helped define the great place it is today and will be for decades more to come.
Jack
John And Audrey are 2 wonderful people who have opened up their homes and hearts to foster a community of inclusion, acceptance, trust and FUN! When I first began playing beach volleyball, it was John who was the most welcoming and positive player at Main Beach. Almost everyday after work, I would find myself going down to Main to see if anyone would play with me, and John would be there most days with those precious words, *Do you want to warm up?* John would play with anyone, no matter what level they were. Kindness oozed from both of you during every tournament and game, not realizing that you were setting high standards for the rest of us volleyball couples of how to treat each other on and off the court with kindness and respect. Thank you for opening up your home for many celebrations and allowing the volleyball community to store nets on your property! We love you! Liz and Drew
Liz & Drew
Dear John & Audrey,
Wow! It is so wonderful to be a part of this volleyball community that esteems you so sincerely. Yes!!! It's like magic when you walk onto the beach together, so in love with each other and so like beach royalty that the ocean sparkles and the breeze is warm and the beach so sunny; the king and queen of fun! and nets! and Santa Cruz beach volleyball history! Everyone plays better knowing you are there! It's just so much fun, and it's obvious you both are such a big part of it in heart and soul; your spirit of generosity is the sun that shines on everyone's game, all the time, all day long, every day we play at 4th Ave. Hugs, hugs, hugs!!!!!
Dan, Rene & Graham Denevan
I told John last weekend that he was my inspiration to keep playing volleyball no matter how old I got and resistent my body had become. When John was playing at 60, that became my goal. But I finally realize I will never catch up with him. It was also a great pleasure to watch Audrey and John as volleyball partners. They were the sweetest and most supportive couple I ever saw play together. Audrey used to share a work office with my wife and Heather often said that Audrey was one of the nicest people she had ever met. Audrey is one of the few people in the world who can understand what it was like to work for the agency for which I now work.
From their volleyball equipment shed to their living room and kitchen, they have been incredibly generous to our 4th Ave. community. You have my utmost gratitude.
Mark Zalona
Dear John and Audrey ,
Thank you for so many great years of volley ball !
And then the wonderful parties at your home ...
As you know , I still have yo come back for it !
Thanks for welcoming me and my family . All the best ...
Andrea
John & Audrey,
Back in Oct of 2001 , we flew out together to experience an unforgettable trip to Maui for a "No Attitudes Tournament". It was this trip where a quality friendship started that I will never forget. I had the pleasure to hang out with you for some incredible Snorkeling, Volleyball and endless conversations over good food and beer. I comprehended on this trip your actual love for volleyball , due do your remarkable Halloween costume (in Lahaina ) where you showed up as an elaborate Volleyball court.
Your contribution to the Santa Cruz Volleyball community is unmeasurable, deep and profound . Your generosity, friendship and Love for Beach Volleyball has changed many lives, including mine. And for this reason I say THANK YOU
PI
John and Audrey, first let me thank you for reaching out during difficult times after I lost Jean. You guys made me feel wanted and it was great hanging around with you. Especially in Hawaii. John, we go back a long way to maybe 1979 or early 80's (my best recollection due to age) when yourself, Pat Simmons,
George Mickey, Rich Bergen, Sue Holmes, and others (again old age don't remember everyone) travelled to beautiful Fresno to play in our tournaments. Ever since I met you John, you have been the same person and to this day I can't remember ever seeing you get upset. I always. marveled how you always kept a level head and got along with everyone.
Then in the mid-80's (again can't remember the year) you introduced Audrey to Jean and I. I mentioned to Jean how happy and proud you looked. Like you had just won the Lotto. Over the years I've enjoyed your company and playing volleyball with you. I've been blessed for knowing both of you all these years. Does not matter what is going on in your lives you always found the time to say hi and ask how my family was doing. Thanks!
John and Audrey, thank you very much for your hospitality and allowing the equipment to be stored at your house.. You even allowed folks to use your restroom. Unfortunately, I will be unable to attend your gala due to the fact that Cheryl and I will be on a cruise. God bless!
Ray Mares
