Disney Spirit Award goes to Devon Walker

Tulane University senior Devon Walker, right, received the 2013 Disney Spirit Award, an honor given annually by Disney Sports to college football's most inspirational figure, on Thursday (Dec. 12) during The Home Depot College Football Awards at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Shown with Tom Rinaldi, ESPN reporter, Walker received a standing ovation from the audience.

“Winning the Disney Spirit Award gives me a renewed sense of purpose to continue on my path toward recovery and, in doing so, provide inspiration to others to never give up,” said Walker, 22, who is paralyzed from the neck down. “I have a fantastic support system in my family, friends, teammates, coaches, university staff and others from around the country who constantly encourage me to keep fighting. Returning to campus and my team this fall has allowed me to regain a sense of normalcy and has given me hope for a full and successful life.” (Photos from ESPN)