Pitt running back James Conner, who defeated cancer and recovered from a season-ending knee injury this year, has been named winner of the 2016 Disney Sports Spirit Award, given each year to the most inspirational person in college football. Disney Sports Vice President Faron Kelley will present Conner with the award Dec. 8 at the Home Depot College Football Awards ceremony at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta.
“I am incredibly humbled by this recognition, especially when I see the unbelievable list of people who are past recipients of the Disney Sports Spirit Award,” Conner said in a statement. “A year ago at this time, I was just beginning my battle against cancer. Being able to stand here today, cancer-free, and accept this honor is a blessing beyond words. “I've been fortunate to have so many wonderful people — Dr. Stanley Marks (of UPMC), coach (Pat) Narduzzi, my teammates and countless others — support me every step of the way. “To those who are fighting their own personal battle, I want them to always remember that fear is a choice. You don't have to fear cancer. I defeated it and I know you can, too.”
Kelley called Conner “the ideal choice” for the award..................
LINK;
http://triblive.com/sports/college/pitt/11515977-74/conner-cancer-award
“I am incredibly humbled by this recognition, especially when I see the unbelievable list of people who are past recipients of the Disney Sports Spirit Award,” Conner said in a statement. “A year ago at this time, I was just beginning my battle against cancer. Being able to stand here today, cancer-free, and accept this honor is a blessing beyond words. “I've been fortunate to have so many wonderful people — Dr. Stanley Marks (of UPMC), coach (Pat) Narduzzi, my teammates and countless others — support me every step of the way. “To those who are fighting their own personal battle, I want them to always remember that fear is a choice. You don't have to fear cancer. I defeated it and I know you can, too.”
Kelley called Conner “the ideal choice” for the award..................
LINK;
http://triblive.com/sports/college/pitt/11515977-74/conner-cancer-award
