Sept. 17, 2008

2008 Lowe's Senior CLASS Award Release

FULLERTON, CA - Cal State Fullerton senior defender Jenae Gibbens was named as one of 30 candidates for the Lowe's Senior CLASS Award for the 2008 season it was announced on Wednesday (Sept. 17).

The award is given annually to senior student-athletes across nine NCAA Division I sports based on their dedication and achievement in four areas: classroom, character, community, and competition.

An acronym for Celebrating Loyalty and Achievement for Staying in School, the award was launched during the 2001-02 season in response to the trend of college basketball players leaving college early to turn professional.

The award was conceived by sportscaster Dick Enberg, who continues to serve as Honorary Chairman, and has recognized winners in men's and women's basketball for seven years. Lowe's extended the award in 2006 to include baseball, softball, men's hockey and men's lacrosse, then in 2007 added men's and women's soccer. The award will also include the sport of football this fall, bringing the total awards program to nine NCAA Division I sports.

On the women's side, 26 different NCAA colleges and universities are represented from 19 conferences across the country.

From the list of 30 candidates, a national media committee will select 10 finalists in October. Those 10 names will then be placed on the official ballot for nationwide voting on Oct. 9-Nov. 19.

Fan balloting will be coupled with votes from coaches and media to determine the recipient of the award. Winners will be announced during the 2008 Women's College Cup in Cary, N.C., in December.

More information can be found at www.seniorclassaward.com.