Nov. 13, 2001

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Samford University Head Women's Basketball Coach Janet Cone received the Alabama State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (ASAHPERD) Service Award Tuesday afternoon at the Wynfrey Hotel.

Cone is the only coach in the four-year history of Samford women's basketball. She has been tireless in her efforts to promote women's basketball throughout the Birmingham area and the state of Alabama. She has educated and supported local young people concerning the importance of being active regardless of skill level. She has developed a program called Project Hoops, for which she along with her assistant coaches and players travel to schools throughout the year sharing their basketball skills and love with youngsters. The message for Project Hoops is simple - be involved, in positive activities, do your best, and make good choices.

Cone has spoken at National Girls and Women in Sports Day events, spreading the message that sport teaches lifelong lessons that go far beyond the athletic arena into everyday life.

"I am honored to receive this award," said Cone. "I want to thank Samford University for allowing my assistant coaches and our players to go out into the community and to make a difference in peoples lives. I think of this as an award for Samford Women's Basketball rather than an award for Janet Cone, but it is certainly an honor."