Award named after Cheney native and No. 1 NFL draft pick Steve Emtman

Junior Jacque Brown of the Eastern Washington University volleyball team has earned the Volleyball Emtman Award. In capturing the honor, awarded by head strength and conditioning coach Jeff Carroll, she was recognized for her strong work ethic, perseverance, character and team-first attitude.

The award is named after Steve Emtman, a Cheney native who was selected first in the 1992 NFL draft by the Indianapolis Colts and then had a six-year career in the NFL with the Colts, Miami Dolphins and Washington Redskins.

Following his final season at the University of Washington, he finished fourth in the Heisman Trophy voting and won the Outland Trophy. At UW, he earned a reputation as one of the strongest and fastest defensive lineman to ever play college football.

“I feel very strongly that Jacque is a deserving winner of this award,” Carroll said. “She represents all of the qualities that we see as important for all members of the Eagle athletic family.”

Brown and the Eagles will kick off their 2009 campaign at the Oregon Classic from Aug. 28-29.