Kurz to be Honored with "Warner Award"

Published on April 22, 2011 under Arena Football League (AFL) News Release

TULSA, OKLA. - After a lifelong commitment to the AFL, game of football and education, Commissioner Jerry B. Kurz will be recognized for his achievements and dedication at the 51st Annual Pop Warner Scholastic Banquet.

Kurz will be presented the "Warner Award" on May 28, 2011 at the banquet. Named after Glenn S. "Pop" Warner, the Warner Award is presented to an individual who has achieved excellence in athletics, scholarship and life's endeavors with integrity and humanity.

"We're delighted to recognize Jerry Kurz, who's done such a fabulous job with af2 and, more recently, in resurrecting the Arena Football League. Beyond his accomplishments with the League, he's a true 'football guy' and a great friend to Pop Warner," Jon Butler, Executive Director, Pop Warner Little Scholars said. "He truly epitomizes the life lessons we teach our young athletes and we are proud to honor him at our 2011 Scholastic Awards Banquet."

Former AFL Quarterback Kurt Warner is a past recipient of the "Warner Award," along with many other inspirational athletes including Earnest Graham, Jonathon Kraft and Tim Brown.

"It is with humility that I humbly accept this honor," Commissioner Jerry B. Kurz said. "After being a student athlete and teaching athletes throughout my career, I am honored to be associated with such a positive organization like Pop Warner Little Scholars."

Commissioner Kurz has been involved with the Arena Football League for 26 years and just recently signed a contract extension through 2013. During his tenure with the AFL, Kurz has served as President of the af2 and as Vice President of International Development, where he was in charge of the League's international exposure. Kurz has been a player, a coach, a general manager and an owner during his lifelong involvement with the game of football. Kurz attended the University of Oklahoma as an undergraduate and later earned his Juris Doctor Degree at Northern Illinois. Kurz also taught history at two separate high schools in Chicago.

Each year at the Pop Warner All-American Scholar Banquet, public figures are honored for their commitment to academics, athletics, and communities and youth across America, as well as the most academically advanced student-athletes; many of whom will receive college scholarships at the banquet.

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