ERIE, Pa – The Penn State Behrend women's basketball team has been named the recipient of the 2012-13 Collegiate Officials Association (COA) "Donna Ledwin Sportsmanship Award".  This is the second time the Lions have been awarded this honor, winning it previously following the 2009-10 season.

The award is presented to a coach, team, and college or university, which in the judgment of the COA officials and staff best exemplifies "the highest degree of sportsmanship, character, and ethics among their players, coaches, and spectators".  

Donna Ledwin, Commissioner of the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference, is a full proponent of sportsmanship, as reflected in the motto for her conference: Cheer for your team, not against the visitors. Don't get personal in comments about players, coaches, or officials. Give players, coaches, and officials their space by keeping away from the team bench areas and playing area. No vulgar, profane, racist, or sexist comments. A no-tolerance policy for alcohol is in effect at all contests.

The award will be presented at the annual COA fall clinic, Sunday, October 22, 2013.