LaDainian Tomlinson Wins Prestigious 2008 Bart Starr Award

A Positive Role Model on the Field and in the Community - Chargers' Star Running Back Honored at Annual NFL-Sanctioned Super Bowl Breakfast

PHOENIX, Feb. 2, 2008—LaDainian Tomlinson is best known for the speed and power that have helped him lead the NFL in rushing the past two seasons. Today, the San Diego Chargers' All-Pro running back was recognized not for his impressive athleticism, but for his outstanding character-as the winner of the 2008 Bart Starr Award.

Tomlinson was presented with the award this morning during the annual NFL-sanctioned Super Bowl Breakfast, hosted by Athletes in Action, at the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa in Phoenix.

The Bart Starr Award, bearing the name of NFL Hall of Famer Bart Starr, honors Starr's lifelong commitment to serving as a positive role model to his family, teammates and community. The winner of the Bart Starr Award is determined by NFL player balloting at the end of the regular season, making the award one of the few individual honors selected by the players themselves. Other 2008 award finalists included Chicago Bears' wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad and Kurt Warner, quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals.

"I feel so honored and humbled to be chosen for this award and to be in the company of great players like Bart Starr who not only played the game to win but who also wanted to help make a difference in their communities," said Tomlinson.

Tomlinson's influence has impacted the lives of thousands of young people. Tomlinson's Touching Lives Foundation works to promote educational, social and cultural awareness and positive self-esteem to help enhance the lives of children and families who are less fortunate. The foundation hosts programs including youth football camps, Thanksgiving meals for needy San Diego families, Christmas gifts for ill children and scholarships which are presented each year to 30 college-bound students.

"When you hear about LaDainian's accomplishments and contributions, it's obvious why everyone associated with this outstanding event will be pleased to honor him," said Bart Starr. "We are grateful for his leadership in the family, church and community."

The Super Bowl Breakfast and award presentation featured NFL athletes and coaches, including Indianapolis coach Tony Dungy, NFL Hall of Famer Bart Starr and former Bart Starr Award recipients Anthony Munoz and Brent Jones.

The Super Bowl Breakfast is an Athletes in Action Sports Legend Series event. The Sports Legend Series is comprised of four premier events designed to honor athletes and coaches who model exemplary character, values, integrity and faith. For more information, visit www.AIASportsLegendSeries.com. 

To watch more of LaDainian Tomlinson's story, visit www.BeyondtheUltimate.org.

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