By From Official Dispatches
White wins Wide World of Sports Spirit Award
Junior defensive end Dewayne White has been named the recipient of the 2002 Disney’s Wide World of Sports Spirit Award, which recognizes the accomplishments of college football’s most inspirational student-athlete.
The award will be presented as part of ESPN’s live national television broadcast of The Home Depot College Football Awards at the Atlantic Dance Hall at the Walt Disney World Resort on Thursday, December 12. The twelfth annual awards show is scheduled from 7 to 9 PM.
White was given the award for the manner in which he has courageously overcome the variety of obstacles in his life, including the loss of both his parents.
After suffering a knee injury during his senior season at Marbury High School, only Louisville was willing to take a chance on him, and he has flourished.
In three years, White already holds Louisville’s all-time career records in sacks (36.5) and tackles for loss (55.5).
“Dewayne White has displayed strength, courage, and resiliency in conquering numerous challenges,” said Reggie Williams, vice president of Disney Sports Attractions, who will be presenting the award to White. “Dewayne’s success as a football player and citizen prove what people are capable of accomplishing despite even the most difficult circumstances. Dewayne deserves this year’s Disney’s Wide World of Sports Spirit Award not only for surviving, but for excelling beyond the tragedies in his life.”
