Nonnewaug Senior, A Brain Cancer Survivor, To Get Special CIAC Award

WOODBURY, CT — A Nonnewaug High School senior who has endured five surgeries to treat brain cancer, beginning at just six years old, will be honored this spring with the Michael H. Savage Spirit of Sport Award from the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC).

Scott Meyer, a member of the indoor and outdoor track teams, becomes the 15th recipient of the distinguished yearly award. As Connecticut’s honoree, he will go forward as a nominee for the National Federation of State High School Associations’ (NFHS) Section 1 and National Spirit of Sport Awards.

"The Michael H. Savage Spirit of Sport Award seeks to recognize individuals who exemplify the ideals of the positive spirit of sport that represent the core mission of education-based athletics," the CIAC said in a written statement. "The award may be given in recognition of a specific act or an activity of longer duration."

In addition to multiple surgeries, Meyer also has undergone two rounds of chemotherapy. Despite being left with residual effects, including left-sided weakness, minimal use of his left hand and seizures, his goal this spring is to qualify as a thrower (shot put, javelin) and compete in the Berkshire League outdoor track championships.

"Over the years, Scott has continued to make steady progress," Chiefs head boys outdoor track coach Deb Flaherty said. "He now shot puts nearly 10 feet further than he did two years ago, and is only inches away from meeting the qualification to compete in the Berkshire League championships this spring. Similarly, he has improved his javelin throw by 16 feet during his time on track and has a chance of qualifying for the league meet this year. I am confident that with his work ethic and focus on the goal, he will meet his goal and compete in leagues this year."

Boys indoor track coach Areigh Duff said, "I am honored to know and coach Scott Meyer. He is an inspiration to me every day I watch him practice and compete. Sometimes as athletes, we have to overcome obstacles to achieve a higher goal. Scott had to overcome an obstacle much bigger than most. He had to battle brain cancer."

"What most people wouldn’t realize is that Scott made me a better coach to all the athletes," track coach Don Maki said. "We had to create new drills, techniques and exercises to accommodate his physical differences, some of which I’ve used with the other athletes. He also helped me better understand the emotional side of training someone who’s less physically gifted than other athletes and to react to those emotional needs."

Meyer will be formally honored at the CIAC’s annual Scholar-Athlete Banquet in May.

A video of Meyer being surprised with the CIAC award may be viewed here.