Derek Burdick receives John Egli – PSUAC Outstanding Scholar-Athlete Award

May 21, 2012

Derek Burdick a graduate in May from Penn State DuBois has received the John Egli outstanding scholar athlete award from the Penn State University Athletic Conference (PSUAC) at a luncheon on Monday.  The PSUAC selected one male and one female recipient from over 1,300 student/athletes across the commonwealth campuses.  Derek earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing and Business Management while being a member of the basketball team at PSU DuBois for four years.  Derek was diagnosed with a severe illness during his senior season which kept him out of several games and limited his play in others.  Derek did not let this prohibit him from being a mentor to the younger players and key contributor to the team winning the PSUAC Championship.

Derek has been recognized by the USCAA as Academic All-American three times during his career, as well as team captain for two seasons.  Derek's leadership on and off the court were invaluable to Coach Bennett and his staff.

Derek is the son of Michelle and Paul Burdick of Coudersport who were on hand at the luncheon to see Derek receive his award.  The female selection for the John Egli award was Bobbie Caprice from Penn State Brandywine. 

Also, honored at the luncheon was Penn State DuBois head men's basketball coach Dave Bennett.  Coach Bennett was selected as "Coach of the Year" for men's basketball; Dave "thanked his assistant coaches and his players for a year of hard work and achievement – he shares the award with all his players and staff".