Supporting Role and Crimson Climb field announced for RCCA

LAWRENCE, Kan. – The finest in a group of student-athletes with a knack for not only getting the best out of themselves, but also elevating their teammates and another group who have worked hard to overcome challenges or exceed expectations in the classroom comprise the fields of nominees for the Best Jayhawk in a Supporting Role and Crimson Climb, to be awarded at the Rock Chalk Choice Awards at the Lied Center of Kansas Sept. 11.

Maggie Anderson (volleyball), Malika Baker (track & field and cross country), Lauren Breshears (soccer), Haley Molden (swimming & diving) and Joe Moroney (baseball) were nominated for The Best Jayhawk in a Supporting Role Award, presented to a student-athlete who demonstrates extraordinary sportsmanship, support and loyalty to teammates and Kansas Athletics.

Greg Allen (football), Briana Evans (softball), Angie Flores (rowing), Adriana Newell (track & field) and Fish Smithson (football) were nominated for the Crimson Climb Award, given to the student-athlete who has served as an inspiration to others by overcoming challenges and exceeding academic expectations.

Both awards will be presented by former Kansas football players, who were each recipients in their respective categories over the last five years. Michael Cummings was a starter at quarterback in 2014 before an injury ended his career, yet he remained on the team for 2015 and was selected as the Best Jayhawk in a Supporting Role while helping lead the program and its players in transition to a new coaching staff. Anthony Davis collected more than 50 tackles in four years (2007-11) patrolling Kansas’ defensive backfield and overcame academic adversity to win the Crimson Climb Award.

Following a red-carpet entrance and a reception in the Lied Center lobby, accolades in five additional categories – Jayhawker Award, True Blue Award, Rock Chalk Moment Award, and Male and Female Athlete of the Year – will be unveiled and special student-athlete academic achievements will be recognized during the ceremony on Sept. 11.

As in years past, due to space limitations at the Lied Center the event is by invitation only and limited to athletic department staff, student-athletes, and selected KU faculty and dignitaries. A tape-delayed presentation of the Rock Chalk Choice Awards will be aired at a later date on Time Warner Cable SportsChannel, along with scenes from the student-athlete entrances on the Red Carpet. Furthermore, a special live Red Carpet show will be streamed live via Facebook for followers of Kansas Athletics.   

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