This year's new tradition of "The Wave," where everyone in Kinnick Stadium gives a shoutout to the children of the University of Iowa’s Stead Family’s Children’s Hospital, not only went viral, but is now winning the team an award. Coach Ferentz will be presented the 2017 Disney Sports Spirit Award during The Home Depot College Football Awards presented by GILDAN. It will be air on Dec. 7 on ESPN.
“First and foremost, we are excited to have been selected the 2017 winner of the Disney Sports Spirit Award. I don’t believe anyone would have imagined the wave — “The Kinnick Wave” — would have become such a universal show of support. It’s a simple way for 70,000 people to recognize the kids, the parents and hospital staff who are the real champions, fighting every day to overcome significant medical challenges. I’m proud that a kind gesture has had a profoundly positive impact on so many people in our state and the nation. We are honored and proud to be part of the Kinnick Wave.” -Coach Kirk Ferentz