Every Sacramento Monarchs game creates a festive and inviting atmosphere, so it was no surprise that the 2008 Monarchs MVP Party provided the same feeling. With activities ranging from a fashion show to video games with Monarchs players and coaches, this year’s party created fun memories for MVPs of all ages.

“The food is great,” exclaimed Cassandra Kachulis of Yuba City, who has been a Monarchs MVP since 2000. “I really enjoy the closeness that is experienced between players and fans alike. My favorite part has to be watching Ticha and Rebekkah play Nintendo Wii. The entire team is very approachable and fun!”

With MonarchsVision lowered and replaying Kara Lawson and Team USA's dominant performance over New Zealand on Sunday, it was the perfect centerpiece for the multitude of party stations around the arena.

Throughout the 1960’s-era themed celebration, MVPs divulged in food samples from Center Court with C-Webb Restaurant, Tahoe Joe’s and Raley’s and Bel Air, plus wine tasting courtesy of Beringer. Along with the tasty treats, MVPs also took photos with Monarchs players and coaches at the Wells Fargo Photo Station, and there was an activities table hosted by SIMS Recycling Solutions. MVPs were also privy to the latest technology from Verizon Wireless, and the youngest MVPs enjoyed playing video games with their favorite Monarchs players at the Best Buy Entertainment Center.

The fun extended to a fashion show, where MVPs saw the latest threads from lucy Activewear, and a raffle giveaway courtesy of Berryfactory.com. It was apparent the MVPs weren’t the only people having a great time.

“My favorite part has been hanging out with the kids and watching (former Monarchs guard) Ruthie Bolton strut her stuff on the fashion show runway,” Monarchs forward Nicole Powell said. “Our fans are so great and we really appreciate all they do, because we wouldn’t be possible without them.”

As MVPs mingled amongst the team and the Monarchs lovable mascot Monty, the party provided a special opportunity for celebration during the Olympic break.

“I really enjoy the involvement with the players,” Monarchs third-year MVP from Galt, Sonja Marino, said. “These special Monarchs events are always fun, just like the games, because you develop friendships with the fans in your section and it becomes personal.”

“We always appreciate our fans,” Monarchs guard Ticha Penicheiro added. “This party is to show them how much we appreciate them. And even though we aren’t playing right now, they are always an important part of us and what we do. We can’t wait to see them back at ARCO Arena again. And with three home games left in the regular season, we’ll definitely need their support to make that extra push for the playoffs.”

If you’re interested in partying with the Monarchs, along with all of the exclusive benefits Monarchs MVPs enjoy, click here to learn more about becoming a Monarchs MVP.