The ITA Rafael Osuna Sportsmanship Award is the ITA’s longest-running award honors a Division I men’s student-athlete who displays sportsmanship, character, excellent academic and has had outstanding playing accomplishments. The award was established in 1969 in memory of Rafael Osuna, who was killed in a place accident at the age of 30. Osuna is one of the all-time great collegiate tennis players, winning three NCAA doubles titles and the 1962 NCAA singles title as part of a USC team that many consider to be the greatest of all time.
William Blumberg's name is synonymous with athletic excellence in the college tennis world, but his work off the court is equally impressive. The three-time team captain is a regular visitor at the UNC Hospital Pediatric Oncology Center. He takes the time to visit with fans, teammates, coaches, and opponents alike. Blumberg has regularly been acknowledged for his sportsmanship. Last season, he was named the Mildred McCaskill award winner by UNC for his excellence in athletics, academics and community service. He is also the only 10-time ITA All-American in history.
A Letter from North Carolina Men's Tennis Head Coach Sam Paul
Dear William,
Congratulations on winning this most prestigious award!
Throughout your amazing career, you have embodied what this honor represents by demonstrating the highest level of sportsmanship and character on and off the court.
Thank you for teaching all of us that a player of your caliber can achieve everything (the National Senior Player of the Year Award, 10-time All-America status and more) while also representing himself, his family and his university with fairness, honor and integrity.
In every competitive situation in both practice and matches, you always held yourself to the highest level of sportsmanship. Even in your last collegiate event, you refused to accept a point penalty because you felt it was unfair to your opponent.
I am so proud of you and what you have accomplished as a player, but I’m most proud of what you represent as a person. You have brought great honor to our university and program.
Congratulations on this richly deserved honor and thank you!