Former Saint Steve Gleason to receive Arthur Ashe Award at ESPYs

Former Saint Steve Gleason will receive the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage at this year’s ESPY Awards.

The ceremony is July 11.

Gleason, who blocked punt against the Atlanta Falcons in the team’s first game back in the Superdome after Hurricane Katrina, was diagnosed with ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, in 2011.

He has become a tireless advocate for those living with ALS and his Team Gleason Foundation has raised $40 million to provide equipment, technology and care services for those living with the disease.

ESPN announced on social media Thursday morning that Gleason would receive the Arthur Ashe Award. In addition, Dawn Staley will receive the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance and Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, will receive the Pat Tillman Award for Service.

Gleason responded to the news on social media called the award a ‘powerful platform.’

“Over the past 13 years, I’ve been documenting our journey with ALS. My aim has always been to see if we can discover peace and freedom with a love of Life, in the midst of extreme adversity. Being recognized at The 2024 ESPYS is not just an honor, but a powerful platform to further help and serve others. Thank you, ESPN, for this incredible accolade.”