Nassaney Bulldog Cup
In the spirit of the institutional and NCAA philosophy, the Nassaney Bulldog Cup demonstrates the continued effort to support the balance and development of the whole personal through the Bryant University student-athlete experience.
Formerly known as the Nassaney Team of the Year, this award was first given out in 2004 and was established to honor and remember Bryant alumnus Shawn Nassaney, who was killed in the events of September 11, 2001.
A four-year member of the Bulldog cross country and track & field teams during his time in Smithfield, Shawn graduated from Bryant cum laude in 1998. A two-time Bulldog Award recipient, he was a beloved teammate, respected colleague and devoted friend.
Shawn held the values of what defines a true student-athlete dear to his heart — hard work in the classroom, doing one’s part on campus and in the community, and serving as a leader in every endeavor, both athletically and otherwise. And so each year, this special team honor is presented to the program that best personifies the characteristics and values Shawn held dear.
The Nassaney Bulldog Cup awards points to recognize the efforts of student-athletes in community service, campus participation, academic achievement and athletic prowess and is given out at the end of each year to the team that best combines these important aspects of being balanced and well-rounded. Through this and through the foundation established in his name, Shawn’s legacy lives on.
The Nassaney Bulldog Cup is supported by the Nassaney Foundation.
PAST WINNERS:
2019-20: Women's Basketball
2018-19: Women's Basketball
2017-18: Field Hockey
2016-17: Women's Basketball
2015-16: Field Hockey
2014-15: Softball
2013-14: Softball
2012-13: Women's Lacrosse
2011-12: Softball
2010-11: Softball
2009-10: Field Hockey
2008-09: Volleyball
2007-08: Women's Soccer
2006-07: Women's Lacrosse
Who was Shawn Nassaney?
Shawn M. Nassaney, born on July 7, 1976, grew up in Pawtucket, Rhode Island as a devoted Yankees fan. He attended Saint Raphael Academy, where he developed an interest in running and became a star on the track team. He attended Bryant and graduated cum laude in 1998 with a bachelor's degree in marketing, all while leading Bryant's track and cross country programs. While at Bryant, Shawn was a two-time recipient of the coveted Bulldog Award for his athletic ability combined with his commitment to the program. Best known for his enthusiasm and drive, Shawn quickly gained the respect of the his friends, classmates, family and teammates, and, after graduation, of his colleagues at his employer, American Power Conversion.
Shawn was a passenger on United Airlines Flight 175 on September 11, 2001.
His legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of the countless people he touched all over the world. He had a contagious love of life, an infectious smile and was a natural leader who mentored and instilled in others his sense of values, passion and drive for excellence.
For more information, please visit www.shawnmnassaney.org.