On Feb. 27, 2006, all eyes will be on the Historic Fox Theatre’s Egyptian Ballroom as the city comes together to celebrate outstanding athletic achievement with the inaugural Atlanta Sports Awards.

This event, created by the Atlanta Sports Council and presented by Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, will honor the most accomplished athletes and teams at all levels from throughout the metro Atlanta community.

“Atlanta is a big-time sports town and this is our opportunity to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our metro Atlanta athletes, coaches, teams and contributors,” said Gary Stokan, Atlanta Sports Council president.

The Atlanta Sports Awards will honor 11 award recipients who distinguish themselves from the five million people living in the 29 metro Atlanta counties and surrounding areas. That includes all six Atlanta professional sports teams, 14 universities, 12 junior colleges and more than 250 public and private high schools. Award categories include seven Athlete of the Year awards, including Pro, Amateur, Collegiate, High School, Men’s Scholar and Women’s Scholar. The Atlanta Sports Awards will also recognize a Sports Person of the Year, Coach of the Year and Team of the Year as well as a local award for lifetime achievement.

In conjunction with partner Applebee’s restaurants, the nomination process for the above awards is open to the public. Nominations will be taken exclusively at the 37 metro Atlanta Applebee’s restaurants for six of the awards from Nov.7 to Dec. 31.

Those interested in nominating an athlete, coach or team for an award may do so by visiting their neighborhood Applebee’s location, filling out an official ballot and depositing the ballot at the restaurant’s nomination station. All Atlantans are encouraged to get involved in the event by nominating deserving athletes and teams from their community.

“Ever since we were founded in Atlanta 25 years ago, local community involvement has been very important to Applebee’s,” said Gary Cockerill, Applebee’s director of marketing. “These awards will be about great achievement, but they’ll also be about tremendous neighborhood spirit. We’re very proud to help present the inaugural Atlanta Sports Awards.”

All nominations will be recorded and provided to The Atlanta Sports Awards Voting Academy, whose members will consist of local sports media, athletic administrators and corporate leaders. All winners will be honored at the event Feb. 27, 2006.

For information on how you can attend the Atlanta Sports Awards, or for sponsorship information, call the Atlanta Sports Council at 404-586-8510.

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