SPOKANE VALLEY, WA. – The Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Phil Champlin, Executive Director of the HUB Sports Center, as the recipient of the Harry E. Nelson Citizen of the Year Award. Champlin was awarded at the 2026 Valley Chamber Business Awards, on March 4, 2026, as the “Champion for Play” recognizing his work in expanding youth access to sports, recreation, and community programming throughout the region.
Under his leadership and active involvement in the community, the HUB serves thousands of families, driving community participation and economic activity for Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, and beyond. Throughout his career, Champlin has remained committed to the HUB’s mission: providing events that have a positive impact on youth and community.
I’ve been fortunate to work alongside incredible board members, staff and community partners who believe in the power of play and the role it has in strengthening our community.
“I see this award as an organizational win,” Champlin said. “I’ve been fortunate to work alongside incredible board members, staff and community partners who believe in the power of play and the role it has in strengthening our community.”
Champlin’s leadership has emphasized collaboration with schools, youth organizations and local partners. “Through his leadership, the HUB has become far more than a sports facility — it’s a cornerstone of the community where thousands of kids and families come together to learn, grow, and belong,” said Nancy Hill, HUB Sports Center Board of Directors Chair.
The Citizen of the Year Award is named in honor of Harry E. Nelson, a foundational figure in the Spokane Valley community and a driving force behind establishing the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce. Selected by past recipients, Champlin’s philosophy and approach to work aligns with Nelson’s legacy of passion and commitment to the Spokane Valley community.
Since 1921, the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce has been the catalyst for building relationships, driving collaboration, and championing opportunity for the Greater Spokane Valley. Today, the Valley Chamber serves businesses and organization members throughout the Greater Spokane Valley, including the cities of Spokane Valley, Millwood, Liberty Lake, and unincorporated areas of Spokane County.
