March 12, 2007
For Immediate Release
Comeback Award Finalists Announced
Award presented by The V Foundation for Cancer Research and ESPN
Cary, N.C. — The V Foundation for Cancer Research has announced the finalists for the seventh annual V Foundation Comeback Award. The award is presented in conjunction with ESPN and the recipient will be announced during ESPN’s basketball Final Four/NIT weekend coverage.
The finalists are: Warren Carter, University of Illinois; Kaitlyn McCormick, Bethany College; Ashley McMillen, Syracuse University; Lauren Mueller, Converse College; Michael Neal, University of Oklahoma; Ralphanee’ Peyton, Wayne State University; Ann-Marie Torp, Metro State College; Whitney Tyriver, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh; and the United States Military Academy Women’s Basketball Team.
The annual award is open to men and women collegiate basketball student-athletes in all NCAA divisions. It is awarded to an individual or a team who has accomplished a personal triumph in the face of true adversity, be it in health, life or moral dilemma.
The award is presented in memory of Jim Valvano, the late basketball coach and ESPN commentator, whose personal battle with cancer inspired the creation of The V Foundation. In his memorable speech at ESPN’s inaugural ESPY Awards announcing the creation of The V Foundation, Valvano’s “Don’t Give Up. . .Don’t Ever Give Up!”®motto created a legacy from which the Comeback Award has been created.
“Once again I am amazed at the strength and resilience of the student-athletes who are nominated forThe V Foundation Comeback Award,” said V Foundation CEO Nick Valvano. “These young people are outstanding student-athletes who have faced adversity and challenges with incredible determination and strength.
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