IMG Speakers Bureau Client Eric LeGrand To Receive Prestigious Jimmy V Award at ESPYs

Congratulations to IMG Speakers client, Eric LeGrand, who will be honored at The 2012 ESPY Awards where he will be presented with the Jimmy V Perseverance Award.

LeGrand, a former Rutgers defensive tackle, suffered a spinal cord injury during a 2010 game that ended his playing career and changed his life forever. Initially told he would be a quadriplegic and would have to remain on a ventilator, he worked hard and steadily improved over the following weeks. He began breathing on his own and later even began standing upright with the aid of a metal frame.  LeGrand signed an honorary contract with the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers this past May.

The Jimmy V Perseverance Award was named after, and inspired by, the late Jimmy Valvano.   It is given to a deserving member of the sporting world who has overcome great obstacles through perseverance and determination.

LeGrand’s perseverance both mentally and physically has inspired many, including his new NFL Buccaneers teammates and sports fans across the country. He recently visited the Bucs’ training complex to visit with players and announced that his No. 52 jersey will be sold online with proceeds benefiting spinal cord research.

“It is truly an honor to be awarded the prestigious Jimmy V Award,” said Eric LeGrand. “His attitude and perseverance through his battle was and is truly inspiring.  The will to never give up is how I live my everyday life with the battles I have to face.  I am humbled to receive this award and I will live out Jimmy V’s words for the rest of my life.”

The 2012 ESPY Awards ceremony will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN and ESPNHD July 11, 2012 at 9:00 p.m. ET from the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles.