Professional Athlete
Hines Ward Wins “2010 MOST POSITIVE PRO ATHLETE AWARD”
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward was named the winner of the inaugural 2010 “Most Positive Athlete in the World” in a pre-game ceremony at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, PA
The Award nominees were judged by a Voting Academy comprised of highly respected international service organizations such as Rotary International and Sister Cities International. Ward was presented the award on the field by Sister Cities International Chairman Brad Cole during the pre-game of the Steelers’ playoff game against the Baltimore Ravens last January.
"Off the field (achievement) means as much to me as on the field," said Ward, who, in addition to being MVP of a Super Bowl, owns every receiving record in Steelers history, won two Super Bowls and is a four-time Pro Bowl player. "It's a huge honor for me winning the award. I'm blessed to be in a position to be able to give back, and that is what makes you feel good inside."
The Voting Academy used an established criteria of a professional athlete’s local, national and international community involvement, as well as their leadership as a member of their team/organization, league/sport and as a role model for young athletes.
“Celebrate Positive congratulates Hines Ward for exemplifying what giving back to the community means” said Scott Pederson, President and CEO, Celebrate Positive. “Hines Ward is a wonderful example of how a professional athlete can make an incredible impact internationally.”
The nomination of Hines Ward came from
Pearl S. Buck International Inc. His critical work in Korea which has changed the perception of the biracial population in the community. His involvement has attracted influential Koreans to join him in his efforts.
“Hines Ward changed the cultural landscape of Korea,” said Janet Mintzer, President/CEO of Pearl S. Buck Intl. “After Japanese invasions, Korea placed high value on being pure-blooded Koreans, creating prejudice of biracial people. As a successful biracial Korean-American, he returned to Korea, creating media attention which sparked a cultural shift. “
Read more about Hines Ward in this article by Ed Kracz from the Philadelphia: Intelligencer: http://www.phillyburbs.com/news/local/the_intelligencer/the_intelligencer_news_details/article/27/2011/january/09/helping-others-to-catch-on.html