July 28, 2010

CHICAGO – Former Alabama All-American offensive lineman and NFL Hall of Famer John Hannah will receive the 2010 George Connor Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2010 Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame dinner on Sept. 15. He will be presented the award for his invaluable contributions to the game of football.
 
Hannah played 13 seasons (1973-85) for the New England Patriots and was inducted into the Professional Football Hall of Fame in 1991. He was dubbed “The Best Offensive Lineman of All Time" by Sports Illustrated on its Aug. 3, 1981, cover. In 1999, he was ranked No. 20 on The Sporting News' list of the 100 Greatest Football Players, the highest-ranking Patriot, the highest-ranking guard and the second-ranked offensive lineman behind Anthony Muñoz.
 
He played tackle and guard at the University of Alabama under head coach Paul "Bear" Bryant from 1970-72. A two-time All-American in 1971 and 1972, he played on back-to-back SEC Championship teams. He was named to Alabama’s All-Century Football team in 1992. During his time at Alabama he also participated in wrestling, as well as track and field, throwing the shot put and discus.
 
Hannah will also be inducted into the Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame along with other standout athlete and administrators including Duke head men's basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski, Chicago Blackhawks chairman Rocky Wirtz and former major league baseball standouts Frank Thomas and Bill Madlock.
 
The Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame has inducted 422 athletes, coaches, officials, media and others who distinguished themselves with contributions to sports.