Dick Enberg
The late, legendary sportscaster Dick Enberg watched the 2001 National Championship Game carefully as senior center Shane Battier led Duke University to the NCAA Men’s Division I Title against Arizona.
Battier’s decision to turn down a possible opportunity of being a lottery pick in the NBA and return to Duke for his senior season captured the admiration of Enberg. During halftime of that championship game, Enberg hosted a video essay on what it meant to be a college senior basketball player. He then suggested that someone should start an award to pay tribute to seniors who fulfill their athletic eligibility and earn their college degree. Later that year, Premier Sports Management initiated the Senior CLASS Award™ and invited Enberg to become Honorary Chairman.
Prior to his passing in December 2017, Enberg was arguably the premier sportscaster of his time, with a storied career spanning nearly four decades. His image, voice, and vital personality entertained millions of viewers at sporting event broadcasts that included numerous Super Bowls, Olympics, Wimbledons, and other major and minor sporting events.
The multi-talented Enberg was also a popular speaker and author. However, Enberg was especially identified with the NCAA basketball Final Four, and his insight and energy made March Madness an unforgettable experience for basketball fans around the world.
As part of his role as Honorary Chairman of the Senior CLASS Award, Enberg would announce the men’s basketball winner during the NCAA Men’s Final Four on CBS each year. He also served as Master of Ceremonies at Senior CLASS Awards galas and provided the voice behind numerous video announcements that are shown in college arenas and stadiums throughout the country at NCAA championship events.
“Please join with me in Celebrating Loyalty and Achievement for Staying in School.” - Dick Enberg (read the letter from Dick Enberg - .pdf)
