Nominate a Champion!
We are looking to recognize next-generation leaders in college athletics who are actively working to make a positive and lasting impression on the rare disease community. Nominate yourself or someone you know to be considered as a Rare Disease Champion™.
2025 Rare Disease Champion
About the Award
The Rare Disease Champion™ initiative is an Uplifting Athletes awareness campaign. This is the 18th year Uplifting Athletes has recognized champions by highlighting leaders in college athletics that have made a positive and lasting impact on people affected by rare diseases.
Sculpted by world renowned artist Brian Hanlon, the Rare Disease Champion trophy is in the likeness of Mark Herzlich, the former Boston College and New York Giants linebacker who provided the inspiration for the award after overcoming a life-threatening battle with the rare disease Ewing’s sarcoma in 2009.
Past Champions
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Show the trophy image next to photo.
Show the trophy image next to photo.
Show the trophy image next to photo.
*Uplifting Athletes began recognizing each team by the year nominations were submitted and the team was announced.