Boston College senior linebacker Mark Herzlich will be be the recipient of an honorary Lott Trophy. Named after Ronnie Lott, the Lott Trophy is awarded to the defensive IMPACT player of the year (IMPACT is an acronym for integrity, maturity, performance, academics, community and tenacity). This is only the second time an honorary Lott Trophy has been awarded, with the first going to the family of Pat Tillman, the former college and NFL player who was killed while serving with the U.S. Army Rangers in Afghanistan, in 2004. Herzlich has missed the entire 2009 season after being diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma in the spring.

Here is the press release:

Mark Herlich To Receive Honorary Lott Trophy

Boston College Linebacker Mark Herzlich, who has missed the entire 2009 football season while undergoing treatment for cancer, will receive an honorary Lott Trophy, it was announced today by the Board of Directors of The  Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation, sponsors of the award.

It is only the second time an honorary Lott Trophy has been awarded, the first going to the family of Pat Tillman in 2004. Tillman, the former college and NFL standout, volunteered for the military and was killed in Afghanistan.

“Mark Herzlich represents all that is good in today’s student-athlete and epitomizes what we look for in Lott Trophy candidates,” said John Hamilton, Chairman of the Board of the IMPACT Foundation.  “His perseverance, attitude and good works are an inspiration to all of us who love college football.”

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