Tug McGraw Foundation Announces 2006 Scholarship Winners

Thirty-five outstanding college students will receive the $1000 UbiquiTel Diamond 45 scholarship in memory of Phillies and Mets relief pitcher Tug McGraw

NAPA VALLEY, Calif., March 14 /PRNewswire/ -- While Tug McGraw's signature "screwball" pitch will never be thrown again, his legacy continues to hit home runs thanks to the two-year-old Tug McGraw Foundation.

Before he died of a malignant brain tumor in 2004, McGraw expressed the desire to create a mechanism to help others suffering with brain tumors, as well as encourage young people to pursue their dreams. With the help of his son, country singer Tim McGraw, and friend and caregiver, Jennifer Brusstar, the Tug McGraw Foundation was established. Now in its second year, the foundation has forged significant partnerships with medical institutions such as Duke University, creating the "Tug McGraw Center for Neuro-Oncology Quality of Life Research," as well as a grant program that provides funds for brain tumor quality of life research.

"Tug was a man with passion, and he lived his life that way," said his son, Tim McGraw, one of country music's greatest artists. "I'm very proud of the foundation's work making this a real powerhouse in finding a cure for brain tumors, and helping patients by improving their quality of life. I'm also thrilled to see so many talented young people out there, and I want to congratulate them on their achievements."

In addition to medical and research initiatives, the foundation awards $1000 to students across the country who embody Tug's "Ya Gotta Believe" positive attitude. With a two-year donation from the Sprint PCS Affiliate UbiquiTel, 54 students have already received the grant, which will be used to help defray their tuition costs. According to Brusstar, who is CEO of the foundation, this year's winners "truly reflect Tug's spirit and enthusiasm."

"After being affected by Hurricane Katrina physically and mentally, receiving the Tug McGraw scholarship will help me to help others rebuild Louisiana," said Laura Cancienne from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA.

"When Tug was alive he spent innumerable hours working with young people, and was deeply committed to helping them overcome obstacles," said Brusstar. "We are so proud of this year's winners, like Debra Perry from University of Phoenix in Phoenix, Arizona, as well as the other outstanding young people who were our winners this year."

Donald A. Harris, Chairman and CEO of UbiquiTel, said: "We've now given 54 scholarships so far, and I know that each winner will recognize the value over time. Every one of our winners represents the values that Tug held dear, and we congratulate them for their efforts." To receive the scholarship, students submitted essays explaining how McGraw's Ya Gotta Believe spirit positively impacted their lives.

For more information or to make a donation to the Tug McGraw Foundation visit the website at http://www.tugmcgraw.com/.

Website: http://www.tugmcgraw.com/