Meier Named Babe Didrikson Zaharias Award Winner

May 25, 2011

CORAL GABLES, Fla. – University of Miami women’s basketball coach was honored by the Delta Psi Kappa and The Sports Society with the Babe Didrickson Zaharias award at the 28th Annual Women Athletes: Reach the Stars Award Ceremony at Don Shula’s Hotel and Resort’s Grand Slam Ballroom in Miami Lakes.

The award is given annually to an outstanding professional/amateur athlete or coach who has shown exemplary dedication and commitment to the world of women in sports.

“This is a phenomenal event to recognize young women and having them aware of the past struggles women went through,” said Meier. “In this room, there are so many successful young women who will do well in life because athletics are a foundation for building confidence and self-esteem.”

Earlier this season, Meier was named both the Associated Press and the Atlantic Coast Conference as their Coach of the Year after leading the Canes to a 28-5 record and an appearance in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Miami also went 12-2 in conference play, earning UM’s first regular season title since joining the ACC in 2004.

Meier joins other Miami honorees, such as Tina Miller (Golf, 2005), Lauryn Williams (Track, 2004), Yolanda McCray (Track, 1999) and current UM golf head coach Patti Rizzo (1990).

Rising senior guard Shenise Johnson also received recognition on Tuesday night, earning the collegiate athlete of the year honor.

Johnson was named the ACC Player of the Year and to four different All-America Teams, including the prestigious State Farm/WBCA All-America Team.

Delta Psi Kappa is a national professional physical education organization whose purposes are to promote an interest in health, physical education and recreation, and to provide opportunities for professional growth.

The Sports Society is an organization of community leaders in business, industry and in education, whose mission is to promote opportunities for women and girls in sports.