The Thomas R. Clinton Sportsmanship Award is annually presented by the coaching staff to the one individual who is most deserving from each Boca Jets Lacrosse team. Throughout the season, this player has proven that he or she possesses the following characteristics:

• -Exhibits exemplary sportsmanship and leadership
• -Shows a commitment to improve and excel
• -Motivates and inspires his or her team to succeed

This award is named after Tom Clinton (the brother of Boca Jets founders Brian and Don Clinton) who passed away November 23, 2003 at the age of 44. Tom played lacrosse for perennial Long Island high school powerhouse, Farmingdale, before being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at age 18. After undergoing radiation and chemotherapy and another bout with Hodgkin’s at age 23, Tom received his MBA from Florida Atlantic University. He then played midfield for the nine-time Florida State Champions, Fort Lauderdale Lacrosse Club.

In 2002, Tom was diagnosed with another form of cancer, non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, and complications from the treatment and subsequent surgery eventually took his life. Throughout his ordeal, Tom led a very fulfilled and positive life raising two beautiful boys, Matt & Johnny, in Boca Raton. He never questioned why he ended up with so many medical problems, but instead channeled his energy to focus on how to be a better person. Tom was an inspiration to all who knew him.

The profile used to choose the recipient of this Sportsmanship Award is a description of how Tom played lacrosse and lived his life: Instead of worrying about things you can’t change, focus instead on having a positive influence on everything and everyone you touch.

Congratulations to the recipients of the Thomas R. Clinton Sportsmanship Award !