The Foundation for Global Sports Development Begins Accepting Nominations for Athletes in Excellence Award

Elite-level athletes will be selected to receive the award based on their commitment to service and mentorship.

Los Angeles, California

The Foundation for Global Sports Development (GSD) is pleased to announce it is accepting nominations for the 2017 Athletes in Excellence Award. This distinguished award is granted to elite-level athletes who display a high level of character and commitment to community service and mentorship.

The Athletes in Excellence Award honors athletes who have used their achievements in sport as a catalyst to inspire positive change. The award recipients are acknowledged for their outstanding efforts in community outreach, humanitarianism and youth mentorship. Previous recipients of the Athletes in Excellence Award include Candace Cable, Steve Mesler, Rafer Johnson, and Hayley Wickenheiser. Athletes in Excellence Award recipients also receive a financial award in the amount of $10,000, which allows them to continue pursuing their passion for community service and mentorship.

“We created this award in 2014 to shine a spotlight on athletes who are making a positive impact in their communities,” said David Ulich, GSD Executive Board Member. “We hope their stories inspire youth to be champions and leaders in their own communities.”

Dr. Steven Ungerleider, GSD Executive Board Member, explains why the recipients are chosen through a nomination process. “Rather than handpick the award recipients, we are seeking nominations from the athletes’ peers and colleagues – people who personally know the nominee and are familiar with their community service or mentorship activities.”

Nominations may be submitted by individuals or organizations familiar with the athlete’s accomplishments. Any athlete over the age of 18 is eligible to receive the Athletes in Excellence Award. For more information about the award and nomination guidelines, please visit www.GlobalSportsDevelopment.org/athletes-excellence. The nomination round runs May 11, 2017 – July 14, 2017.

About Global Sports Development

Working closely with international sports federations, generous donors and committed athletes, The Foundation for Global Sports Development promotes sportsmanship, education, fair play and ethics among the world’s youth. The Foundation gives special emphasis to groups and communities that are most in need or most underserved by current programs, including women, minorities and youth in areas where the risk of delinquency is particularly high. Visit www.globalsportsdevelopment.org to learn more.