Spartan Picks up National Award

AURORA, Ill. April 11, 2008 - The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) recently awarded Tom Sroka, offensive lineman from Aurora University, with its annual All-American Strength and Conditioning Athlete of the Year Award in recognition of the student-athlete’s dedication to strength training and conditioning.

This year, the NSCA awarded 239 collegiate athletes from 165 schools with the esteemed award. Sroka was selected by the strength coach, Terry Smith, CSCS, ATC, who said, “Tom could be the most dedicated athlete I have dealt with when it comes to physical preparation for sport. It is this work ethic that makes him an over-achiever on and off the field. This past year he has recovered from a career threatening injury due to his relentless drive and resolve.”

Robert Jursnick, NSCA’s Executive Director added, “The advantage of strength training and conditioning cannot be denied in collegiate athletics. These student-athletes attest to the understanding and are to be applauded for their hard work and dedication.”

The NSCA All-American Athlete of the Year Award program is in its 29th year and is made possible by a grant from Power Systems, Inc., a Knoxville, TN, fitness product leader.

The Spartans concluded the 2007 campaign with a 5-5 record; 4-3 in the final year of the Illini-Badger Football Conference under third-year Head Coach Rich Duncan.

-END-