Kirk Gibson to Receive Musial Award for Extraordinary Character
Former Major League Baseball star Kirk Gibson will receive a Musial Award for Extraordinary Character on Nov. 21 at the Stifel Theater, as announced by the St. Louis Sports Commission. The award honors his post-career efforts to help people with Parkinson’s disease through the Kirk Gibson Center for Parkinson’s Wellness, which he founded after his own diagnosis in 2015. The center provides therapy and counseling services free of charge.
Honoring Athletic Legacy and Humanitarian Work
The Musial family praised Gibson’s contributions in a statement released by the St. Louis Sports Commission, highlighting both his athletic career and his current humanitarian efforts. “We admire the humanity and generosity Kirk has displayed in seeking to improve the quality of life for others, and we are inspired by the courage he has shown in his own battle with Parkinson’s,” the statement read. The family also noted his iconic Game 1 winning home run in the 1988 World Series for the Los Angeles Dodgers against the Oakland Athletics. Gibson won the National League MVP award that same season.
Broadcasting History and Previous Winners
Gibson’s famous 1988 World Series home run off reliever Dennis Eckersley is permanently linked to legendary broadcaster Jack Buck’s radio call on KMOX, where Buck exclaimed, “I don’t believe what I just saw.” Joe Garagiola served as the television analyst for that game alongside Vin Scully. Gibson joins a notable list of previous Musial Award recipients, including former Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald Jr. and Jen Pawol, the first female umpire in a Major League Baseball game.
Event Schedule and Broadcast Details
The upcoming ceremony will also honor tennis legend Billie Jean King, who was previously announced as the recipient of the Stan Musial Lifetime Achievement Award for sportsmanship. The Nov. 21 event at the Stifel Theater will be condensed into a one-hour program scheduled to air nationally on CBS on Dec. 26.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Musial Awards
What is the Musial Award for Extraordinary Character?
The Musial Award for Extraordinary Character recognizes individuals who demonstrate sportsmanship, selflessness, and exceptional character. Kirk Gibson was chosen for this honor due to his advocacy and support services for individuals battling Parkinson’s disease.
When and where will the ceremony take place?
The ceremony is scheduled for Nov. 21 at the Stifel Theater in St. Louis. The event will later be broadcast nationally as a one-hour program on CBS on Dec. 26.
Who else is being honored at the event?
Tennis legend Billie Jean King is also being honored at the November ceremony as the recipient of the Stan Musial Lifetime Achievement Award for sportsmanship.