SELINSGROVE, Pa. – Susquehanna University sophomore Kerri Brugger is among 19 winners of the first-ever Diamond 45/UbiquiTel Scholarships presented by the Tug McGraw Foundation to students who exemplify the late former major-league pitcher's philosophy of “Ya Gotta Believe.”

Brugger (Oakland, NJ/Indian Hills) was honored along with the other scholarship winners in a pregame ceremony at the Philadelphia Phillies' April 15 home game against the Atlanta Braves. Phillies first baseman Jim Thome, a member of the foundation's board of directors, was among those participating in the on-field presentation.

A catcher on the Crusader softball team, Brugger was encouraged to apply by her parents, Dennis and Debbie Brugger, who are fans of the New York Mets – the team with which McGraw played the first nine seasons of his career from 1965-1974 before being traded to the Phillies.

Applicants submitted an essay on how McGraw's stirring words had an impact in their lives and how “Ya Gotta Believe” played a role as they competed in their chosen sport or faced a significant personal situation.

The scholarships were awarded through a competitive application process which judged applicants on their academic accomplishments, community involvement and leadership ability, while exemplifying McGraw's spirit and showing promise to become leaders and carry on in his name.

Brugger ranks second on the Crusader softball team in batting with a .357 average (15-for-42) with eight runs scored and seven runs batted in, while starting 13 games at catcher.

A global management major, she is a Student Government Association senator, a Business Awareness coach and involved with WQSU-FM, Susquehanna's student radio station.

“We are so proud of Kerri for receiving this prestigious scholarship award,” said head softball coach Kathy Kroupa . “She is an extremely hard worker in the classroom and on the softball field and is a deserving recipient of this honor.”

In all, a total of 19 recipients from Division I, II and III colleges and universities from seven states were presented with the scholarships, which were funded by the foundation's “Diamond 45 Scholarship Program” through a donation from UbiquiTel, Inc. which provides wireless network products and services to 10 states throughout the country.

The Tug McGraw Foundation was founded by the former major leaguer prior to his death from brain cancer in January, 2004 to help brain tumor survivors and their families to live well and to raise public awareness about brain cancer.