GEORGETOWN, Texas - The 2017-18 Fay Vincent Sr. Sportsmanship Award winners were announced and honored at the annual Southwestern University Leadership Banquet Wednesday evening. Kate Mitchell from the volleyball team and Andy Seymour from the men's swimming & diving team were bestowed this honor by President Burger and Director of Athletics Dr. Glada Munt. 

The Fay Vincent, Sr. Sportsmanship Award was established by Southwestern University Board of Visitors member and former Commissioner of Major League Baseball Fay Vincent, Jr., in honor of his father, a former Yale football and baseball captain and National Football League referee. 

The award honors those who promote civility and treat referees, officials, teammates and opponents with genuine respect. Beyond the playing field, they are community leaders and represent Southwestern University in the best possible light. 

KATE MITCHELL – VOLLEYBALL - SENIOR

Kate had a great sense of composure within the tough moments during matches that led her to be respected and admired by referees who have officiated multiple matches during her career at Southwestern University.  Kate's demeanor on the court was a fantastic example of the "Pirate Way" in volleyball at Southwestern.  She excelled on the athletic side of the sport, yet exuded a calm and confidence that gave rise to a sense of respect for the game, her teammates and, as importantly, her opponents.

One example is when Kate was at the 2017 AVCA All-America banquet, she was a wonderful example of respecting her rival opponent's All-America in Trinity University's All-America selection Kirby Smith.  She greeted Kirby and her family and took pictures with Kirby to represent the bond between these four-year on the court opponents and rivals.  

Kate exudes elite level academics and will be pursuing her graduate school dreams after a year of teaching and coaching in her hometown in Northern California.

ANDY SEYMOUR – MEN'S SWIMMING & DIVING - SENIOR

Andy has been a key swimmer for the men's team the past four seasons.  Many of his teammates consider him one of the nicest guys around.   At any event, Andy is always asking the coaching staff and officials if there is some way he can help.

Outside the pool, Andy is currently President of the Student Body and Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. He also works part-time in the admissions office.  Andy is pursuing his degree in business.

Seymour earned a spot on the SCAC Academic Honor Roll and posted his highest finish at the SCAC Championships in the 100 yard backstroke, finishing in eighth place with a time of 54.65.

Click here to view the previous Fay Vincent, Sr. Sportsmanship Award recepients