Rutgers’ Brian Leonard wins sportsmanship award

PISCATAWAY — Rutgers University fullback Brian Leonard, a native of Gouverneur, N.Y., has been named the recipient of the 2006 ARA Sportsmanship Award, presented by Awards and Recognition Association.

“It was a very close competition, as there were many outstanding representatives across Division 1,” said Rich Zydonik, president of the ARA. “Brian truly personifies good sportsmanship and we are honored to name him the 2006 recipient of our award.”

“When you look for a guy that has made a difference, Brian’s a great choice,” commented Dick MacPherson, former head coach for Syracuse University and the New England Patriots. A member of the ARA selection committee, MacPherson will present Leonard with the award.

“When you see how he plays, how he walks, how he talks, Brian just has it all, and he uses it all. And everything he does, he does with complete humility,” added MacPherson. “Brian’s an impact person, because he impacts everything he does and everybody he touches.”

The ARA Sportsmanship Award is presented to the NCAA Division 1 collegiate football player who most exemplifies sportsmanship on and off the field. Leonard, 22, was selected from 10 finalists representing schools across the country. To qualify for the award, an athlete must be a starting player or significant contributor on his team; be a senior in good academic standing; demonstrate great respect for competitors, school, teammates and coaches; show an ability to accept victory and defeat graciously; convey a high degree of humility and integrity; and demonstrate commitment in the classroom and to the community.

A high school football standout, Leonard chose to attend Rutgers in 2002 when it wasn’t in vogue to do so. Leonard committed his talents and loyalty to the Rutgers program and its vision of a winning football program because of the compassionate, respectful way the university treated his brother Nate. A star athlete and linebacker for the Scarlet Knights, Nate suffered a career-ending injury, yet the team honored his football scholarship. By 2005, the team had made the turn, garnering its first winning season in 12 years and its first bowl appearance in 27 years.

Additionally, Leonard made the commitment to stand by his team for one more season, tuning out the lure of NFL football scouts in order to finish what he started at Rutgers. He is expected to graduate in 2007.

“He’s become something of a hero at Rutgers, as he was in Gouverneur. He’s just a great example and role model,” said MacPherson.

All NCAA Division I schools were eligible to submit nominations for the ARA Sportsmanship Award. The finalists were selected in a blinded process by a blue-ribbon panel of former football coaches, sports and media professionals, and representatives from ARA and other complementary organizations.