Sports Imports Announces the 2015 Courage Award Recipient

Sports Imports is pleased to announce that Kennedy Hubbard is the inspiration behind the 2015 Sports Imports Courage Award.  This past spring, the Sports Imports Family was privileged to meet Kennedy, a young woman who is unlike any we have encountered.

Kennedy’s young life began with a challenging condition called Lymphatic Malformations.  Lymphatic Malformations are rare non-malignant masses consisting of fluid-filled channels or spaces and can affect any area of the body (except the brain), but most commonly affect the head and neck.  The condition prohibited Kennedy from participating in any youth sports.  Instead of focusing on what she could not do, Kennedy and her family focused on what they could do. They created “Kennedy’s Cause”; a non-profit organization aimed at raising awareness about Lymphatic Malformations, funding research, and supporting families and children dealing with related medical issues.

Upon entering high school, Kennedy finally received her physician’s permission to play a sport; she chose volleyball. Kennedy quickly developed into a motivated and skilled setter, with a passion and love for the sport, her teammates and coaches.  After just four years of playing volleyball, Kennedy looked forward to playing for the Stockton University Ospreys in the fall of 2015.

Instead of celebrating her successes and all that she had overcome, Kennedy looked outward.  She wanted to give back to her fellow players, coaches and the community that supported her, her family and Kennedy’s Cause.  Kennedy’s dream was to construct two beach volleyball courts in her hometown of Moorestown, New Jersey.  On July 29, Kennedy saw that dream realized with the completion of two beach volleyball courts at Jeff Young Memorial Park, dedicated in her honor.

After hearing Kennedy’s story, the Sports Imports family was impressed with Kennedy’s humble demeanor, determination, selflessness, motivation and positive attitude.  The resounding virtue that came to mind? Courage.  Kennedy has displayed, and continues to display incredible courage in the face of adversity.  The team at Sports Imports agreed, this astounding young woman should be recognized among the volleyball community.

It is our privilege to announce that Kennedy Hubbard will be honored with the Inaugural Sports Imports/AVCA Courage Award at the AVCA All-America/Players of the Year Banquet on Friday, December 18, 2015 in Omaha Nebraska.