2020 Disney Spirit Award Winner, Darien Rencher, a running back from Clemson University, was surprised with the news that he won the award by his coach, Dabo Swinney.
What’s Happening:
- Clemson University running back Darien Rencher started yesterday’s football practice like any other, until Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney pulled Darien aside for a special surprise.
- During an emotional moment between player and coach, Swinney revealed to Darien that he has been chosen to receive this year’s Disney Spirit Award. The recognition is presented annually to the most inspirational figure in college football.
- Darien demonstrated leadership amid college football’s push to overcome social injustice and the coronavirus pandemic. Working alongside some of the sport’s biggest stars, Darien was one of the early voices that sparked a national movement to promote safe play during the 2020 season. He has also long been a vocal advocate for improving the lives of those in the African-American community, and was a key organizer of a peaceful campus march by the football program in support of social justice.
- Disney Sports Vice President Faron Kelley will present Darien with the Disney Spirit Award live on ESPN during a virtual broadcast of The Home Depot College Football Awards show on Jan. 7, 2021 at 7 pm ET.
- Make sure to tune in to ESPN or the ESPN app to learn more about Darien Rencher’s amazing story.
What They’re Saying:
- Darien Rencher: “Dreams come true. As a young kid, I grew up around this area, and to see all the things that I thought were setbacks, the Lord used them for major comebacks in my life. This moment wouldn’t be what it is without all the moments that came before it, and I know this moment will lead to another moment. I feel like one of the highest human acts is to inspire people to do something good. To know that I inspired people makes me thankful for the entire journey.”