Valparaiso University’s Adam Rundh (Aalborg, Denmark/Orjanskolan H.S. [Sweden]) has been named as one of the top-10 finalists for the fifth annual Sportsmanship Award handed out by the Awards and Recognition Association (ARA).  The award is giving to one outstanding NCAA Division I collegiate football player who best personifies the spirit of sportsmanship.

The 2009 Sportsmanship Award recipient will be chosen from one of these 10 finalists and announced this December.  Rundh is one of only two finalists from NCAA Division I-FCS schools. 

 “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; be an athlete 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 Head Football Coach LaVell Edwards chairs the selection committee.  “We’re uncovering some of the finest players the sport 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,” notes Edwards.

On the field, Rundh has been a three-year starter for the Crusaders, making over 100 tackles in his career with the Brown and Gold.  He has registered 30 tackles for loss, including 12 quarterback sacks, has blocked three kicks, forced a fumble, and recovered another while at Valpo.

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

Rundh is also very active within the community.  He has assisted with painting at the Mental Health Association of Porter County as a volunteer project with Advocates for Civic Engagement (ACE).  He also helped with the renovation of the playground at Hilltop House, a neighborhood organization in Valpo that assists under privileged youths.  In addition, Rundh has participated in volunteer reading and tutoring programs at local elementary schools.