Broncos’ John Lynch Wins the Prestigious 2007 Bart Starr Award

John Lynch Honored for Outstanding Character and Leadership at the Annual NFL-sanctioned Super Bowl Breakfast

SOUTH FLORIDA, Feb. 3, 2007—"As gratifying as my career as an NFL player has been, I have found that the opportunity to make a difference in someone's life is just as gratifying."
-John Lynch, Denver Broncos

For his outstanding character and leadership on and off the field, Denver Broncos safety John Lynch is the winner of the 2007 Bart Starr Award. Lynch was recognized during the annual NFL-sanctioned Super Bowl Breakfast, hosted by Athletes in Action, at the Westin Diplomat Resort in Hollywood Beach, Fla. 
 
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 2007 award finalists included Peyton Manning, quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts, and Warrick Dunn, running back for the Atlanta Falcons.
 
"Winning this award is one of the great honors of my career," said Lynch. "We play this game to win championships, but we are also blessed with a platform to make a difference in our communities. To be chosen for this great award is extremely humbling and I'm honored to be in the great company of Bart Starr and the past recipients."
 
Lynch's influence has impacted the lives of thousands of young people. In August 2000, John and his wife Linda formed the John Lynch Foundation to reach students to instill in them the drive to become effective community leaders. The John Lynch Foundation offers education and athletic-based incentives for young children, scholarships for high school students, and ways to keep coaches and teachers motivated. The foundation also hosts the annual Salute the Stars luncheon, which recognizes top student athletes in the Denver area.
 
"When you read of John'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 Bart Starr Award presentation will be featured in a television special on FOX Sports Net, Feb.  6 and 11. For more broadcast information, visit www.SuperBowlBreakfastLive.com. 
 
The Super Bowl Breakfast is an Athletes in Action Sports Legend Series event. The Sports Legend Series is comprised of five premier events designed to honor athletes and coaches who model exemplary character, values, integrity, and faith. For more information on the Sports Legend Series visit www.AIASportsLegendSeries.com.

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