Chris Via’s natural generosity and unwavering support of bowling’s top charitable foundations has earned him one of the most prestigious honors in the sport. Via has shown tremendous support for the Striking Against Breast Cancer foundation year-round and took on a new position as an official advocate for Bowlers to Veterans Link, the official charity of the PBA. He has also served as a leader and role model on Team USA for almost a decade.

“I would much rather be remembered as a great person rather than a great bowler,” Via said. “I just want to leave the game in a better place than where it was when I started. It's been nice to give back to the community and try to pass along as much knowledge as I can to the next generation.”

The Tony Reyes Community Service Award recognizes a current PBA member who exemplifies extraordinary community service, charitable or educational contributions over the course of a PBA season.

Reyes, who died in 2012, was an eight-time PBA Regional Tour champion, collegiate All-American and the 18th player in PBA history to bowl a 300 game on national television. Few remember the accolades when they think of Tony Reyes; instead, they remember his infectious laugh, buoyant personality and limitless generosity.