Jan. 16, 2008

Nashville, Tenn. - The annual NCAA Convention is a chance for the Association to come together under one roof to reexamine the previous year, and set a course for the year ahead. It is also a chance, though, to celebrate both current and former student-athletes for the dedication, intensity and valor that they have shown on and off the field at one time during their lives. It is at the NCAA Honors Celebration where these types of individuals are recognized in front of the entire Association; United States Military graduate 2nd Lt. Emily Perez was honored with the NCAA Award of Valor, along with United States Naval Academy graduate Major Doug Zembiec, while Colgate graduate Bob Woodruff was one of eight individuals honored with the Silver Anniversary Award.

The Patriot League prides itself on fostering an environment that creates individuals of character, based on the motto, "Today's Student-Athletes, Tomorrow's Leaders." For the three former student-athletes that graduated from current Patriot League institutions who were honored at the Honors Celebration, this slogan couldn't apply more.

2nd Lt. Emily Perez was truly special student-athlete in a League full of individuals that fit that description. As was mentioned in the video tribute to her before receiving the award posthumously, Perez was a Brigade Command Sergeant Major who ranked second in her class, tutored football players, sang for the gospel choir, and also managed to be an integral part of Army's women's track and field team. Perez was so athletically gifted that in her senior season, with her team needing only a few points to edge arch-rival Navy for second place at the Patriot League championship, she stepped in to compete in the triple jump for the first time. She ended up finishing second in the event, allowing her team to garner the much needed points. It was just a glimpse into the character of someone who touched so many lives during her time at Army.

Army AD Kevin Anderson presents the Award of Valor

Perez's father accepted the award from Army Athletic Director Kevin Anderson on his daughter's behalf at the Honors Celebration, and gave a speech that gave those of us in the crowd a sense of what Emily was all about. He mentioned the impact that she had on particular Cadets at West Point, and how she always led from the front. Mr. Perez then told stories of her time spent in service in Iraq, and how her brigade referred to her as "Kobe" because like Kobe Bryant, she was the one that you called on when something needed to be done. For those of us sitting in the crowd, it was obvious how truly special Emily was. As a former Patriot League student-athlete myself, I understood every word that was being said about her life; the sacrifices that go into attending Army or Navy, and the remarkable individuals that are produced by both schools. It made me think back to every post-game handshake that I had after a game against the two service academies, and specifically how I treasured every single hand that I shook because of the uncertainty of the future and the heartfelt appreciation for everything that they do.

Navy AD Chet Gladchuk presents the Award of Valor

Former Navy wrestler Major Doug Zembiec was the other winner of the NCAA Award of Valor. Navy Athletic Director Chet Gladchuk was on hand to present the award posthumously to the 1995 graduate. Zembiec was an All-American wrestler for the school, and although he did not participate in the Patriot League, his honor and service to the U.S. Naval Academy are worthy of recognition.

Colgate AD Dave Roach accepts the Silver Anniversary Award for Bob Woodruff

The final former student-athlete that was honored by the NCAA on Sunday evening was former Colgate lacrosse player Bob Woodruff. Woodruff, a 1983 graduate of the school, remains as the school's all-time leader in goals, and is second in assists. He currently serves as a co-anchor on ABC's World News Tonight, and was on assignment in the Sudan during the ceremony. Woodruff was critically injured by a roadside bomb in January of 2006 in Iraq, but was back on the job just 13 months later. Colgate Athletic Director Dave Roach accepted the award on Woodruff's behalf.

The NCAA Award of Valor is presented to a current or former coach, administrator or varsity letter-winner who, when confronted with a situation, involving personal danger, averted or minimized potential disaster by courageous action or noteworthy bravery. For members of the armed forces to be considered for this honor, the action must be clearly above and beyond the call of duty and so recognized by the appropriate military command. The NCAA Silver Anniversary Award recognizes former student-athletes who have completed successful collegiate careers in various sports and have excelled in their chosen professions. The Silver Anniversary Award acknowledges the former student-athletes on their 25th anniversary of completing their athletics eligibility.

An hour long broadcast of the 2008 NCAA Honors Celebration will take place on Friday, February 1 at 3 p.m. on ESPN2.