Oct. 10, 2012

PHILADELPHIA - Saint Joseph's men's basketballl coach Phil Martelli was presented with the American Cancer Society Southeast Region Distinguished Service award at the organization's 2012 Southeast Region Volunteer Awards Dinner on Wednesday, October 3 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in King of Prussia, Pa. The Distinguished Service Award is the highest honor bestowed by the Southeast Region to a volunteer who has greatly contributed to the American Cancer Society for a minimum of 10 years, while carrying out its mission.

Now entering his 18th season as the Hawks' head coach, Martelli currently serves as the national chair of the Coaches vs. Cancer® Council. While also serving as the Coaches vs. Cancer of Philadelphia chair since 1999, he has helped lead the local program to becoming the most successful one in the nation. Under his leadership, the Coaches vs. Cancer of Philadelphia program is a three-time Southeast Region Project Award winner and has raised over $8 million since 1996.

The program was involved in the capital campaign to raise funds for the Hope Lodge of Philadelphia and ultimately fulfilled a $1 million pledge in addition to securing over $200,000 in capital campaign donations.

Martelli continues to show his support for the ACS and has also served as a spokesperson for the Great American Smokeout, the Society's crusade to challenge people to stop using tobacco. He also played an active role in the establishment of the current pediatric cancer patient navigator at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

To learn more about the American Cancer Society or Coaches vs. Cancer, call 800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org.