May 6, 2008

CANYON, Texas - The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) took notice of the new strength and conditioning program at West Texas A&M and as Courtney Lee and Jonathan Granger were each recognized as All-American Strength and Conditioning Athlete of the Year.

The award is given to student athletes who dedicate themselves to strength and conditioning. This year, the NSCA awarded 239 collegiate athletes from 165 schools with this esteemed award.

Robert Jursnick, NSCA's Executive Director adds, "The advantages of strength training and conditioning cannot be denied in collegiate athletics. These student-athletes attest to this understanding, and are to be applauded for their hard work and dedication."

The NSCA All-American Athlete of the Year Award program is in its 29th year, and is made possible by a grant from Power Systems, Inc., a Knoxville, Tenn. fitness product leader.

Both students were nominated for the award by WT's first year strength coach Sarah Ramey.

Lee helped to lead the Lady Buff basketball team to another Lone Star Conference title with a record of 26-5, while Granger, a two-year captain, helped the Buffs to three straight LSC titles on the gridiron. Each athlete brings something different to their workouts, yet both have a positive impact on their teammates.

Jonathan Granger

"Courtney comes ready to work each day with a can do attitude," Ramey said. "She encourages and pushes her teammates to achieve new levels of strength and never settles for less than her best effort."

"Jonathan brings a tremendous work ethic to the weight room each day," Ramey said. "He is a leader through his effort, words and intensity. His dedication to training and taking care of his body has led to a great career on the field. His goals are to become a strength and conditioning coach so he can have an effect on the athletes of tomorrow."