Franklin Gomez receives Big Ten Sportsmanship Award

Gomez recognized for his academics, citizenship and sportsmanship

(One member of each varsity sports team on every campus was chosen by the institution as a Sportsmanship Award honoree and from each university's list, two outstanding Sportsmanship Award winners were then selected. All of the Sportsmanship Award honorees have distinguished themselves through sportsmanship and ethical behavior. In addition, these student-athletes must be in good academic standing and must have demonstrated good citizenship outside of the sports-competition setting.)  MALE WINNER: Franklin Gomez (Wrestling)

East Lansing, Mich., 06/22/10 - One of the greatest wrestlers in Michigan State wrestling history, Franklin Gomez ended his illustrious career with an all-time record of 119-15. Gomez's career was solidified after he captured the NCAA Championship at 133 pounds in 2009. Along with his national title, Gomez also tallied third-place finishes at both the 2008 and 2010 NCAA Championships.

"Franklin has been one of the best athletes I've ever coached here at Michigan State," said wrestling head coach Tom Minkel. "He is at the very, very top of the list of our great wrestlers here. He was a terrific young man both in the classroom and on the mat, and we have been enormously fortunate to have him in our program."

Gomez was a three-time All-American after his performances at the 2008, 2009 and 2010 NCAA Championships. The two-time Big Ten Champion at 133 pounds etched his name in school history as he is ranked fourth all-time with 15 NCAA Tournament wins in his three NCAA Championships appearances.

Throughout all of his wins and losses, Gomez always shook the hand of his opposition and the opposing coaches at the conclusion of each match to show great sportsmanship.

Gomez also excelled in the classroom as this year marked the third consecutive year Gomez was named to the NWCA All-Academic Team.