Pitcher and manager earn recognitions for their off-field conduct.
At Wrigley Field on Thursday night, Chicago Cubs pitcher Brian Duensing and manager Joe Maddon were honored by American Legion Baseball. American Legion National Commander Denise H. Rohan presented the awards.
Duensing received the American Legion Baseball Graduate of the Year award, which honors a former Legion player who is currently playing in the Major Leagues for his character, leadership, playing abilities and community service. Individuals are recommended by their respective post.
A standout for Post 374's Millard South team in Omaha, Neb., Duensing has gone on to a 10-year Major League career and has spent much of that career doing community service, including sponsoring his old Legion team and running the Brian Duensing Foundation, which is “dedicated to providing hope and support to families battling cancer or serious illness.
After receiving an ovation from the home crowd following the presentation, Duensing thanked Rohan and said, “I wouldn't be here without American Legion Baseball.”
In addition, Cubs manager Joe Maddon received a plaque with the inscription, “Presented to Joe Maddon of the Chicago Cubs in grateful appreciation for his continuous support of The American Legion, veterans and for upholding the core tenants of American Legion Baseball: citizenship, sportsmanship, loyalty, team spirit, physical fitness and supporting the nation's youth.”
The Cubs skipper has an annual tradition of hosting an American Legion Week, where he partners with a local American Legion post to share the values with his club.
In addition, he asks the players to relax a little and play like they did when they played American Legion Baseball. He asks players to just show up and play loose and even joked he would take them out for ice cream after the games.
“All of our Americanism and youth program participants are part of our Legion Family,” Rohan said. “It is heartwarming when alumni move on to a successful career and find ways to give back to the nation and to the programs which are as much theirs as they are The American Legion’s.
“Legionnaires across the country should be proud of the difference we are making in the lives of our nation’s youth."
- Baseball