White Sox present 'Roland Hemond Award' to John Kazanas

The Chicago White Sox have announced longtime baseball scout John Kazanas as the recipient of the 2014 Roland Hemond Award, for his act of heroism in helping a family in danger. He will be presented the award by White Sox chairman Jerry Reinsdorf in a special pregame ceremony at U.S. Cellular Field this Sunday, September 14.

John Kazanas has been a White Sox scout for the past 25 years.   Earlier this year, Kazanas was traveling through the state of Arizona on his way to scout the Area Code Baseball Games tryouts when he witnessed a shocking automobile accident on a dangerous stretch of highway referred to as the "white cross highway" - a truck hauling a camper hit a van, sending it rolling multiple times down the highway. Rather than continuing on the road like other motorists, Kazanas stopped to help a woman and her three children out of the van.  

In his career, Kazanas has scouted some of the most well-known baseball players, including Sox captain Paul Konerko. In addition to this act of bravery and his baseball contributions to the White Sox, Kazanas has been a model citizen through his selfless service to others.

"It is an honor and pleasure to see John Kazanas receive this award," said former White Sox general manager Roland Hemond. "John is a true baseball man, who through his selfless act became a hero to a family in need."

Kazanas will receive the 2014 Roland Hemond Award in honor of his heroism and selfless acts on behalf of others. As the award's recipient, Kazanas will enjoy next year's Major League Baseball All-Star Game at Great American Ballpark in Cincinnati as a guest of the White Sox.

The White Sox created the Roland Hemond Award in 2003 to honor those who show a tireless dedication to bettering the lives of those around them. The award is bestowed upon those who offer extraordinary personal sacrifice for the benefit of others.

"This award celebrates the character and kindness of Roland Hemond, while at the same time showing our appreciation for the unselfish nature of people like John Kazanas," said White Sox chairman Jerry Reinsdorf. "John receiving this award embodies Roland's spirit and honors his commitment and selfless service to the others."

The Roland Hemond Award will be presented to John Kazanas during a pregame ceremony on the field on Sunday, September 14. The White Sox will face Minnesota at 1:10 p.m.