Wooden plaque with embossed metal seal and engraved metal plate. The wooden backing has the front edges decoratively bevelled. At top-center is the circular seal of the Order of AHEPA embossed on metal. The seal is attached by a screw from the back. The seal has "ORDER OF AHEPA" running along the edge of the upper curve of the seal. In the middle of the seal is a cross with crossed swords behind it. Perched atop the cross is an eagle with spread wings and a crown above its head. Under the cross is an olive branch. The aforementioned are set against a background of a rishing sun. The metal plate is secured with screws in each corner. Engraved on the plate is: "The 1972 Harry Agganis Award To Gus Ganakas Head Basketball Coach Michigan State University Selected By The Order Of AHEPA As The Outstanding Hellene In The Field Of Athletics For The Year 1972, Supreme Lodge, Order of AHEPA."

Found in collection. AHEPA is a national organization that promotes Hellenism, education, philanthropy, civic responsibility, and individual & family excellence. The Harry Agganis Award is named in honor of Harry Agganis, "The Golden Greek," who was a football star at Boston University and played first base for the Boston Red Sox from 1954-1955 before dying of a pulmonary embolism in 1955. Gus Ganakas was assistant men's basketball coach at Michigan State University from 1966-1969 before taking over the head coaching job from 1969-1976. From 1976-1998, Ganakas served as assistan athletic director for Michigan State University, and from 1998-2000 served as a special assistant to MSU head men's basketball coach, Tom Izzo. Ganakas is currently a broadcaster and basketball analyst for Spartan Sports Network, the sports network for Michigan State University.

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