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GLENVIEW, ILL. (Nov. 5, 2008) - The Awards and Recognition Association (ARA) today revealed BYU defensive lineman Jan Jorgensen as one of the top 10 finalists for its annual sportsmanship award given to one outstanding NCAA Bowl Division collegiate football player who best personifies the spirit of sportsmanship.
Jorgensen, is someone head coach Bronco Mendenhall refers to as "the heart and soul of the defense." A passionate player with a love for his teammates and university as deeply rooted as his love for the game and competition, he is an icon of sportsmanship and dedication to hard work - on and off the field.
A Lott Trophy quarterfinalist, the native of Helper, Utah is the current Mountain West Conference all-time sack leader with 22.5 after recording two sacks against CSU last Saturday. Voted defensive captain by his peers, Jorgensen is gracious with the press, acknowledging performances on his and opponents' teams.
The 2008 Sportsmanship Award recipient will be chosen from one of the 10 finalists and announced this December. Finalists represent a variety of schools of all sizes throughout the United States. Previous winners are former Washington State quarterback Alex Brink (2007), St. Louis Rams running back Brian Leonard (2006) and Carolina Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams (2005).
"The ARA Sportsmanship Award is the only national award that recognizes an athlete's character and leadership as it translates to sportsmanship," said Cathy Garcia, President of the ARA. "Our panel seeks stand out players who give 100 plus percent when on the football field and in life. We're thrilled about the caliber of this year's candidates. These young men are role models and consistently conduct themselves in an exemplary sportsmanlike manner."
To qualify for the award, an athlete must be a starting player or significant contributor on his team; be in his fourth year and 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.
Former Brigham Young University Head Football Coach LaVell Edwards chairs the selection committee. The finalists were selected in a blind process.
