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By Times staff writer
© St. Petersburg Times, published June 16, 2001
Before this past school year, Canterbury athletic director Dave Smith said he wanted the school to be recognized for its sportsmanship.
Within two years, the goal was to be nominated for the Fred E. Rozelle Award, given annually by the Florida High Schools Activities Association in recognition of good sportsmanship, and win it within three.
The Crusaders accomplished the goals early, winning the award for Class A at a banquet Thursday in Tampa.
"We were just ecstatic when they called our name," Smith said. "I've been coaching for 26 years. I've had championship teams in various sports. I'm proud of that award as much as any I've won.
"We're going through an age when sportsmanship is not where we think it should be. It's a true tribute to our coaches, student-athletes and parents."
Canterbury won $500 for being named the Class A, Section 3 winner.
And the school received $2,000 for beating out the two other finalists -- Seven Rivers Christian and Port St. Lucie Morningside Academy -- for the state award.