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Yankees News: Thurman Munson Awards Keeps Legend’s Memory Alive

By Billy Brost

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Whether you were alive to remember Thurman Munson playing or not, the legend of the former New York Yankees captain can be found everywhere. From his well-preserved locker in the new Yankee Stadium Museum, to his plaque and retired number 15 in Monument Park, even three decades after his tragic death on August 2nd, 1979–this author’s third birthday, his legacy remains as strong as ever in New York City. 

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The annual Thurman Munson Awards honor professional athletes for their on AND off the field work, while helping to keep his memory alive, and to raise much-needed funds for a worthy cause. For more than three decades, the Munson family has worked closely with the AHRC New York City Foundation, providing job training, funding summer camps, and supporting schools for those who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. The goal is to help these people live full, productive lives.

Munson’s widow, Diana, recently told Mark Feinsand of the New York Daily News:

"“Knowing that we’re remembering him while also helping so many people, it’s overwhelming and emotional, I’m very proud of it.”"

Mrs. Munson was originally unsure of whether she wanted to allow the use of her late husband’s name to raise money, but as Feinsand notes, he had previously worked with the charity prior to his untimely death in a plane crash near his home in Canton, Ohio.

Through the years, more than 30 members of the Bronx Bombers have been honored, but the award goes beyond the realm of the baseball diamond, as honorees include the great Muhammad Ali, Justin Tuck, Dara Torres, and many others. Last year alone, the event raised more than $1.2 million dollars for AHRC. Mrs. Munson believed the awards event would only last a couple of years, but closing in on 40 years later, it is still going strong, while keeping the former Yankee captain’s memory at the forefront.

This coming February, honorees will include Yankees’ fire-baller Dellin Betances, former Mets legend Mookie Wilson, New York Giants punter Steve Weatherford and Olympians Meryl Davis and Charlie White. Long time Yankees’ center fielder Bernie Williams, who has been awarded the Thurman Munson Award previously, is slated to receive the “Legend Award.”

Munson, who was only 32-years old when he passed away in 1979, was a former Yankees first round draft selection, American League Rookie of the Year, and 1976 AL Most Valuable Player. He was among the very best catchers of his era, along with Johnny Bench and Carlton Fisk, while winning a pair of World Series titles in 1977 and 1978, and a third AL pennant in 1976.

To donate or volunteer to AHRC NYC, click here.

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