President Obama Announces Patricia “Pat” Summitt as a Recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Probably the best collegiate basketball coach in American history. Pat Summitt is all class.
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President Obama said, Coach Summitt is an inspiration both as the all-time winningest NCAA coach, and as someone who is willing to speak so openly and courageously about her battle with Alzheimers. Pats gift has always been her ability to push those around her to new heights, and over the last 38 years, her unique approach has resulted in both unparalleled success on the court and unrivaled loyalty from those who know her and those whose lives she has touched. Pats coaching career may be over, but Im confident that her work is far from finished. I look forward to awarding her this honor.
In addition to accomplishing an outstanding career as the all-time winningest leader among all NCAA basketball coaches, Coach Summitt has taken Tennessee to more Final Four appearances than any other coach and has the second best record of NCAA Championships in basketball. She has received numerous awards, including being named Naismith Womens Collegiate Coach of the Century. As we approach the 40th anniversary of the signing of Title IX, Summitts remarkable career reflects her rightful place in history as an unparalleled figure in womens team sports. Off the court, Pats work as a spokesperson in the fight against Alzheimer's through the Pat Summitt Foundation Fund is truly inspirational. The Pat Summitt Foundation will make grants to nonprofits to provide education and awareness, support to patients and families, and research to prevent, cure and ultimately eradicate early onset dementia, Alzheimers type.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2012/04/19/president-obama-announces-patricia-pat-summitt-recipient-presidential-me