March 15, 2006

INDIANAPOLIS, IND - Wake Forest legend Arnold Palmer has been named the NCAA's list of the "100 Most Influential Student-Athletes", as announced by the NCAA. One of the most prestigious student-athletes in Demon Deacons history, Palmer has been pegged as No. 25 on the list.

While at Wake Forest, Palmer enjoyed a impressive career, winning two NCAA Championships (1949, `50) and was the first-ever ACC Champion (1954). As a professional, he played from 1955-2005 and won 62 PGA Tour victories along the way, including 10 Champions Tour victories. Named to the Wake Forest Hall of Fame in 1971, Palmer remains one of the most celebrated athletes at Wake Forest.

As part of the NCAA Centennial celebration in 2006, ESPN Classic will air two one-hour programs highlighting the 100 Most Influential NCAA Student-Athletes. The shows will first air March 13, counting down student-athletes from 100 to 51 at 8 p.m. Eastern Time and 50-1 at 9 p.m. In addition, the program specials will re-air several times on ESPNU, the 24-hour college sports network.

"The list of 100 student-athletes represents the best of what college sports and higher education bring to our society," said NCAA President Myles Brand. "Their collective positive impact serves as a model for today's student-athletes."

The NCAA defines the 100 Most Influential Student-Athletes as those who have made a significant impact or major contributions to society.

"The show is really featuring not just the accomplishments student-athletes had in competition, but it's their contribution to society as a whole that's really being celebrated," said John L. Johnson, NCAA Director of Promotions and Events.

The "100 Most Influential Student-Athletes" were chosen by a special panel that included college presidents, athletics directors, faculty representatives, student-athletes and conference representatives.

The NCAA celebrates is 100th anniversary in 2006. The NCAA Centennial began January 6 at the NCAA Convention in Indianapolis.