Nominees for the second edition of “Tecate Premios Deportes” (Tecate Sports Awards) were announced today. Nearly 60 Hispanic athletes from six sports categories are being considered for their sportsmanship, talent and character exemplified during 2008. The winners will be revealed on June 25, 2009, in front of a live audience inside the historic Orpheum Theater in Los Angeles and broadcast on the Univision Network on July 5, 2009.
This year’s nominees were considered based on the athletes’ statistical excellence, participation in a televised professional sport in the United States during 2008, cumulative impact on their team and in the sport, and their reputation as a role model for the Hispanic community. Winners will be selected by a distinguished panel of current and former professional athletes and sports personalities including, famed boxer Oscar de la Hoya; retired NFL player Tony Casillas; NFL Hall of Fame recipient Anthony Muñoz; former Mexican soccer coach and Univision soccer announcer Jesus Bracamontes; and Enrique Borja, legendary Mexican forward and team president of the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL) Tigres.
“The fact that there are more than 50 athletes being considered for these awards is a reflection of the impact Hispanics have on their sport, team and community,” said Oscar de la Hoya, executive committee member. “These individuals are shaping the landscape for future and aspiring athletes and we are thrilled to come together as a committee to celebrate the success of our colleagues and friends.”
Award categories include Boxer of the Year; Soccer Player of the Year; All-Star Soccer Team of the Year; Baseball Player of the Year; Auto Racer of the Year; Basketball Player of the Year; Football Player of the Year; Rising Star of the Year; Athlete of the Year; and Lifetime Achievement Award.
Additionally, sports fans have the opportunity to vote for their favorite athletes by visiting Univision.com (Uniclave: Premios Deportes). Online categories include:Â Baseball Player of the Year, Soccer Team of the Year, Athlete of the Year, and Rising Star Award. Furthermore, the micro site will include the latest news, videos and chats for those wanting the latest information on Tecate Premios Deportes.
Nominees for Boxer of the Year:
•1. Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.
•2. Juan Manuel Lopez
•3. Cristobal Arreola
•4. Juan Manuel Marquez
•5. Victor Ortiz