Comments About Honorees

• On Bob Bigelow: “Mr. Bigelow has developed an extremely well thought-out youth sports message which he expertly delivers with clarity and passion.”
• On Dr. Myles Brand: “Dr. Brand has made many important changes within the NCAA, including the introduction of well thought-out academic reform. He has also steadfastly advocated for the student-athlete at all levels. No one could do this tough job better.”
• On Myles Campbell: “A very high impact high school sports educator. The program that Mr. Campbell administers at Mount Carmel High School is extremely creative, and places a wonderfully positive emphasis on sportsmanship and leadership. His program is a real model for other high schools around the United States.”
• On Jody Conradt: “With large measures of class, competence, and dignity, Coach Conradt has defined the role of sports educator in a highly successful major college program. An extraordinary legacy of excellence and honor.”
• On Frank Deford and Alex Wolff: “The field of sport is fortunate that these two brilliant and fair-minded men have chosen sport as the subject matter to impart their enlightened thinking. They write beautifully, and consistently raise the bar for all sports journalists.”
• On Anita DeFrantz: “It is common to hear Anita DeFrantz referred to as the most powerful woman in sports. What so impressed the committee is the thoughtful and reasoned manner in which Ms. DeFrantz handles her position of power. It is clear that Anita DeFrantz could be anything from senator to CEO. Sports is fortunate to have her!”
• On John Gerdy: “A remarkably astute thinker whose books and essays reflect a great knowledge of all elements of sport, including the inherent problems that exist in intercollegiate sport. A magnificent sports educator!”
• On Christine Grant: “One of the most inspiring sports educators in history, and a dynamic and effective advocate for true equality in sport.”
• On Jackie Joyner-Kersee: “The embodiment of a positive role model who has effectively used her star status to help countless others, particularly young people.”
• On Billie Jean King: “One of the very few superstars whose off the court societal contributions equal her extraordinary record as a player.”
• On Mike Krzyzewski: “Probably the finest athletic representative of a college in the history of intercollegiate sports.”
• On Dr. Richard Lapchick: “A man of great courage and vision whose inspiring work will be felt for generations to come.”
• On Chuck Mitrano: “A young lion whose creative genius, especially on sportsmanship matters, is having a major impact on a national scale.”
• On Dr. Terry Don Phillips: “With a law degree, a PhD, and a great athletic background, Dr. Phillips is a true renaissance educator who is a wonderful example of leadership in a major college program which consistently puts the student-athlete first.”
• On Donald “Dee” Rowe: “No coach in history has successfully mentored more young people than Dee Rowe. A true American athletic treasure.”
• On Pat Summit: “A sports educator of uncompromising integrity, great intellect and vision, and extraordinary passion. Coach Summit’s impact on her players, both during their time at the University of Tennessee and after graduation, is extremely positive.”
• On Susan Summons: “A brilliant speaker and motivator. Coach Summons’ eloquent and inspiring message should be heard by as many student-athletes, coaches and parents as possible. Hopefully, her inclusion in the Top 100 will help with this important objective.”
• On Jim Thompson: “As fine an example of successful social entrepreneurship in the field of sport as has ever been seen. Mr. Thompson started with a wonderful idea. With an admirable combination of perseverance, planning and execution, he has turned that idea into one of the most effective sports education initiatives in history- The Positive Coaching Alliance.”
• On Gary Walters: “One of the most brilliant and principled administrators in intercollegiate sport – now or in history.” On Vivian Acosta: “Recognized as one of the pioneers of gender equity in sports, Dr. Acosta co-authored with Dr. Linda Jean Carpenter, a ground breaking 27 year longitudinal study of the status of women in intercollegiate sport which still stands as the model for women’s equity in sports.”
• On Andre Agassi: “Andre Agassi has seamlessly made the transition from World No. 1 Professional Tennis Player to the Founder and Director of the renowned Andre Agassi Charitable Foundation. He and his wife Steffi Graf offer many extraordinary opportunities for at-risk students, including opening a very successful school, College Academy for grades K-12.”
• On Jody Conradt: “Hailed as one of the finest basketball coaches in NCAA history, Jody Conradt became a coaching legend at the University of Texas. She achieved as much acclaim for her emphasis on education as she did for her brilliant coaching.”
• On Bob Costas: “Widely acclaimed as the premier sportscaster in America, Bob Costas is also an award winning TV sport show host who tackles the tough issues in the sport’s world with great wisdom, fairness and perspective.”
• On Dr. Harry Edwards: “Dr. Harry Edwards is widely recognized as the leading authority on issues of race and sport. He is an activist who is credited with helping forge great strides for the academic discipline of sports sociology.”
• On Dr. Lillian Greene-Chamberlain: “A national champion runner, Dr. Greene-Chamberlain has dedicated her life to developing health education and sports programs nationally and around the world. She is currently a member of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, and a passionate advocate of various sports education issues.”
• On The Reverend Theodore M. Hesburgh: “Fr. Hesburgh is one the most revered educators in America. He served as president of Notre Dame University for 35 years. He has been awarded many of the nation’s highest honors including the NCAA’s Gerald R. Ford award for leadership. He has received an astounding 150 honorary degrees.”
• On Don Hooton: “Don Hooton is a tireless crusader on the dangers of performance enhancing drugs among today’s youth. Thousands of students and parents have benefited from his inspired message on this critically important topic.” On Eunice Kennedy-Shriver: “Eunice Kennedy-Shriver has, in the Kennedy tradition, given selflessly of her time and energy to help those less fortunate. Her work with the Special Olympics is as fine a model of using sport as a medium to help people as has ever been seen in American history.”
• On Dr. Donna Lopiano: “Since beginning her career as an outstanding athlete, Dr. Lopiano has continued to excel in every aspect of sport. With great distinction, she served on The United States Olympic Committee’s Board of Directors and had a brilliant tenure as CEO of The Women’s Sports Foundation.”
• On Sandy Padwe: “Sandy Padwe has used his vast knowledge and experience in sports journalism to become a master teacher on the subject at the Columbia University School of Journalism. With equal measures of kindness and wisdom, Mr. Padwe has successfully mentored many young journalists who have been fortunate enough to be taught by this exceptional man.”
• On Joe Paterno: “No one in the collegiate sport’s world has earned more respect than Joe Paterno. For over five decades, Coach Paterno has conducted his program with competence and class. He epitomizes what the model coach should represent.”
• On Bill Russell: “Bill Russell is not only considered the greatest winner in team sports history but is widely regarded as one of the most insightful individuals in American sport. As an acclaimed author and speaker, Mr. Russell has enriched the lives of thousands with his great wisdom and perspective. Known for his infectious laugh, he has turned his competitiveness to promoting his many charities including the Bill Russell Foundation and the B.E.A.T. Arthritis Group.”
• On Dr. Kevin Speer: “Dr. Speer is one of the preeminent surgeons in the sport’s medicine field. A true scholar-athlete, Dr. Speer was an outstanding football player at Indiana University. His work as Director of the Duke Sports Medicine program earned him international acclaim. He is also known for his extremely insightful commentary on a variety of sports medicine issues.”
• On Vivian Stringer: “A true sports educator, Coach Stringer has achieved justifiable renown for helping her athletes grow as much off the court as on it. Throughout her career, she has been a wonderful model of doing things the right way. A magnificent example of the true sports educator.”
• On Judith Sweet: “One of the most admirable and effective administrators in American sport. Judith Sweet is a true pioneer whose many accomplishments include being named the first female NCAA President. She has also earned a sterling reputation for always putting the student-athlete first.”
• On Dr. Harold Vanderzwaag: “One of the true ‘founding fathers’ of graduate school sports administration. Dr. Vanderzwaag compiled a brilliant record at the University of Massachusetts in its groundbreaking sports management program. He is considered a ‘treasure’ in the sports management community.”
• On Peter Westbrook: “Peter Westbrook was a 6-time Olympian in fencing and continues to keep his Olympic fencing spirit alive with the Peter Westbrook Foundation by giving inner-city youth of New York the discipline and dedication needed to compete in fencing and the wherewithal to stay off the streets. Mr. Westbrook epitomizes the notion of an effective sports educator.”
• On Coach John Wooden: “An American treasure whose enlightened thinking will be studied and honored for centuries to come. Without doubt, the most respected coach in NCAA history.”
• On Tiger Woods: “Not only is Tiger Woods the most recognized athlete in the world, but his work through the Tiger Woods Foundation is as fine an example of a superstar giving back to society as has ever been seen in American sport history. The Tiger Woods Foundation has already reached a staggering 10 million young people through its varied-and highly creative- programs. It is exciting to contemplate what Tiger Woods will contribute to society in the coming decades.”
• Senator Birch Bayh: "Senator Bayh had the vision to see the immense value of women’s sports, and the wherewithal to play a major role in making Title IX become reality. A splendid legacy of uncommon integrity, sensitivity, and accomplishment."
• Bill Beaney: "Whenever one hears the phrase, ‘A coach I wish my son or daughter could play for,’ Bill Beaney immediately comes to mind. A wonderful example of high level success coupled with dignity and humility. What a terrific role model!"
• Tom Farrey: "One of America’s great sports journalists who, to the benefit of parents, has taken a strong interest in issues related to sports parenting. Mr. Farrey’s forthcoming book, "Game On: The All-American Race to Make Champions of our Children," is sure to make a major contribution to the issue of sports parenting."
• Dr. John Lucas: "An Olympic historian of international renown and a true scholar-athlete. Dr. Lucas’ legendary feats as a long distance runner provide a sterling example of the symmetry of mind and body. Inspirational!"
• Mark Murphy: "The essence of a true scholar-athlete and inspired leader. A graduate of Colgate University and of Georgetown Law, Mr. Murphy served as co-captain of the Washington Redskins Super Bowl championship team. Since his entry into the field of athletic administration, he has performed brilliantly in his capacity as athletic director at both Colgate and Northwestern University. He now brings his enlightened thinking to the Presidency of the Green Bay Packers."
• Cal Ripken Jr.: "Perhaps no superstar in the history of sport has made a more valuable contribution to the sports culture than Cal Ripken Jr. His superior skill and remarkable endurance set an example for athletes in all sports. The very embodiment of a positive role model."
• Roxanne Spillett: "As President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Ms. Spillett is a wonderful example of a true sports educator. Her tremendous leadership of an organization that makes an extraordinary difference in the lives of American youth has been an inspiration to sports educators throughout America."
• Brendan Tuohey: "To his great credit, Mr. Tuohey thought of a way to use sport as a means to help people and then, with equal measures of tenacity and vision, turned Peace Players International into a model of excellence in sports education. Tremendous impact."
• Dr. Thomas Tutko: "A pioneer and visionary. Dr. Tutko’s work has had a profound effect on improving youth sport and the overall field of sports psychology. His insights and sound advice have guided numerous leaders in the emergence of this important field. A remarkable contributor to sports education."
• Professor Glenn Wong: "One of the most enlightened thinkers in all of sport. Professor Wong has played a major role in the development of the magnificent Sports Management Program at the University of Massachusetts, a program that has drawn international acclaim."
• Diane Alford: "A nationally recognized leader in the field of helping disabled children, Ms. Alford's Miracle League has provided opportunities for thousands of children who might have otherwise been denied. A compelling model of sports education at its best."
• Notah Begay II. "The only full-blooded American Indian tour golfer in the history of the game, Mr. Begay has created hugely successful youth sports programs designed by Native Americans in Native American communities, inspiring thousands of children with a love of sports and equipping them with the skills to achieve proficiency, if not excel."
• Jerome Bettis. "The Bus," one of the best football players of all time, has made an admirable difference in the lives of thousands of disadvantaged and underprivileged children through his Bus Stops Here Foundation and his award-winning commitment to community involvement."
• William Bowen. "A former President of Princeton University, Mr. Bowen has helped redefine the role of collegiate athletics to bring it in better balance with academics, and at the same time has provided invaluable insights into the role colleges and universities play in shaping our society as a whole."
• Dr. Darrell Burnett. "Dr. Burnett's work as a psychologist and Little League coach has touched the lives of thousands of developmentally challenged children in California, and has shared his wisdom with countless families and coaches across the country. Clearly one of America's greatest sports educators."
• Dr. Linda Jean Carpenter: "Dr. Carpenter joins Vivian Acosta in recognition for her groundbreaking work on women's equity in sports. With great effectiveness, they have paved the way for today's gender equity."
• Jay Coakley. "For nearly four decades, Jay Coakley has worked tirelessly with parents, coaches, and youth sport administrators to make sport participation a source of enjoyment and development for young people, and to make sport more democratic and humane for people of all ages. A wonderful example of one person making a huge difference."
• Bill Curry: "Bill Curry, renowned football player and coach, is now taking his tremendous wisdom and leadership skills to the Georgia State Football program as the first head coach of the new program. Coach Curry will no doubt prepare these Georgia State football players to become strong contributors to society, a concept that he has modeled. A true Renaissance Man."
• Reverend Joe Ehrmann: "For more than a quarter century, this magnificent coach and educator has inspired people across the country with ground-breaking lessons about coaching, team building, mentoring, and parental involvement."
• Zina Garrison: "An Olympic Gold Medalist in tennis as well as an accomplished professional player, Zina Garrison's All Court Tennis Academy has brought the sport into the lives of over 20,000 children, instilling values of self-esteem, hard work, and respect. A wonderful role model."
• Bud Greenspan: "Bud Greenspan's compelling films about the Olympics and legendary Olympians like Jesse Owens and Wilma Rudolph have become worldwide classics, stories that capture the essence of the human spirit at its greatest. Mr. Greenspan is a true American treasure."
• Jim Haney: "A highly accomplished player and coach, and head of the National Association of Basketball Coaches, Mr. Haney has strengthened the voice of college players regarding key issues of the game, engaged coaches in the fight against cancer, and increased awareness about the crucial role coaches play in the lives of their players. One of the very finest leaders in American Sport."
• Charles Hillman: "Dr. Hillman's cutting-edge research on the connection between physical activity, brain function, and aging is helping people around the world lead longer, healthier lives."
• Dr. John Hoberman. "Dr. Hoberman's brilliant writings have shed light on a range of complex and critical issues in sports, such as doping, and has explored the subtle but significant connections to race and culture. One of the great minds in contemporary sports education."
• Terry Holland. "A legendary coach and athletic director, Mr. Holland has built a legacy as a tireless advocate for college athletic reform. He is a true role model of enlightened thinking, class and dignity."
• Phil Jackson: "Phil Jackson is one of the most successful NBA coaches of all time, whose unique spiritual approach contributed mightily to nine titles, all the while imparting valuable lessons on leadership and teamwork beyond the basketball court. A wonderful example of selfless leadership at its best."
• Mary Jo Kane. "Dr. Kane's groundbreaking work has deepened Americans understanding about the role of girls and women in sports, and exposed inequalities in how they are treated on and off the playing field. A tremendous contributor to sports education"
• Roxanne Spillett: "As head of the Boy's and Girls Club of America, Ms. Spillett is an inspiring leader who has made a marked difference in the lives of more than 4 million youth across the country. Her organization continues to use sport and the arts as wonderful mediums of education"
• Dawn Staley: "A three time Olympic gold medalist, coach, and WNBA all-star, Coach Staley has not forgotten her roots, creating opportunities for thousands of young women in her old neighborhood to stay in school and acquire the skills they need to become successful leaders in adulthood."
• Kay Yow. "One of the most successful intercollegiate basketball coaches in history, and a Hall of Fame inductee, Coach Yow has been a model of perseverance as she has continued to coach while battling cancer. There is no more inspirational coach in America than Kay Yow."