Danielle Troutman, Elmira - Basketball

Troutman raised money for the American Cancer Society throughout the 2006-07 season after learning that Teresa Nobles, the wife of her high school basketball coach Tim Nobles, was diagnosed with stage three colon cancer. She raised cancer awareness in the collegiate basketball community and beyond, collecting donations and speaking with members of the local media and local community.

At Troutman’s request, the Elmira College Department of Athletics took donations during two conference men’s and women’s doubleheaders with the two basketball programs donating $25 for each three-pointer made by any team during the weekend. Troutman enthusiastically cheered on every made three-pointer and the programs ended up donating $2,700 to the Chemung County Chapter of the American Cancer Society.

During halftime of one of the games, Troutman joined two teammates and one women’s ice hockey player in donating their hair to “Locks of Love” to support the ongoing fight against cancer. In total, her efforts raised $5,100 for cancer awareness.

"Danielle provides us a shining example of all of the positive power of sport," said Empire 8 Commissioner Chuck Mitrano. "As a team leader, she organized and rallied others to support a noble cause using sport as an influential vehicle. She did so while rooting for her competitive opponents in support of a greater cause. She is a truly outstanding sportswoman."


Luigi Lanzi, Hartwick - Basketball

Lanzi served as co-captain of his basketball team in 2006-07 despite a two-year absence from the sport. He worked hard to involve members of the team by hosting numerous team dinners at his off-campus house and helping the younger players develop. At the conclusion of the year, Lanzi was honored with the school’s Barry Lewis Award and a special Coaches Award in recognition of his efforts on and off the court as a person and a leader.

Lanzi is a member of Sigma Beta Delta, the international honor society in business and management. He created the student fan club on campus, "The Hawks Nest", and served on the Hartwick College Commencement Committee. He consistently attended games and showed his support for the other student-athletes on campus.

In addition to being an active member of the campus community, Lanzi also served the Oneonta community. He volunteered his time with Special Olympics and functions at the Oneonta Boys and Girls Club throughout the semesters.

"Luigi opened his doors to his teammates and reached out to the newer players with great respect," Mitrano said. "His involvement in the campus and the Oneonta community are great reflections of his citizenship and values. We are proud to name him our Sportsman of the Year."