Football player a finalist for sportsmanship award

Fri, November 6, 2009 |

Valparaiso University student-athlete Adam Rundh of Aalborg, Denmark, has been named as one of 10 finalists for the national Awards and Recognition Association (ARA) Sportsmanship Award. The award is given to one outstanding NCAA Division I collegiate football player who best personifies the spirit of sportsmanship.

"I think sportsmanship is extremely important because you need to respect the people around you," Rundh said. "You are all playing because you love the game and are working toward the same goal."

While Rundh he was surprised to find out he was among the finalists for the award, he said it demonstrates that football players at smaller colleges can receive national recognition.

"I feel extremely blessed with the opportunities Valpo has given me and I would definitely make the same choice to come here again," Rundh said.

The 2009 Sportsmanship Award recipient will be announced in December and Rundh is one of only two finalists from a Football Championship Subdivision school.

"As the only national award that recognizes an athlete's character and leadership as it translates to sportsmanship, the ARA Sportsmanship Award was created five years ago to shed light on these positive traits," said Glenn Beckworth, president of the ARA.

To qualify for the award, an athlete must be a starting player or significant contributor on his team; must be 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 coach LaVell Edwards, chairman of the selection committee, said the finalists are among the finest players that sports has to offer.

"These young men have a common thread of a positive attitude, strong work ethic and sense of fair play that is translated to their conduct on and off the playing field," said Edwards.

On the field, Rundh has been a three-year starter for the Crusaders, making more than 100 tackles in his career with the University.

The senior international business and finance double major carries a 3.94 cumulative grade point average and is a three-time ESPN Academic All-District V selection. As a junior, Rundh earned Academic All-America honors as well.

Sportsmanship carries over into the rest of Rundh's life as well.

"It's important of us football players to go out and be active in the community to show people that we support them as much as they support us," Rundh said. "Helping out people also just feels good when you know that you're making their lives a little bit better."

Rundh volunteers with the Mental Health Association of Porter County and Hilltop House (a neighborhood organization in that serves underprivileged youths), and tutors students at local elementary schools.

More information about Rundh and Valpo's football team can be found at http://www.valpoathletics.com.