Senior offensive lineman Arthur Ray Jr. bows his head Saturday at Spartan Stadium before the start of the Spring Game. Ray was able to return to the team to play after recovering from bone cancer. The Spring Game marked the first time he was able to play at Spartan Stadium. Matt Radick/The State News
MSU football senior offensive guard Arthur Ray Jr., who has battled a form of bone cancer for the past four years, was named a finalist for the America’s Choice Honor for Courage in Sports on Monday.
Ray, who has undergone multiple surgeries, was told countless times he would never be able to play football again. However, he was cleared to play in April 2011 and returned to the field on Sept. 2 in the Spartans season opener against Youngstown State.
Senior guard Joel Foreman approached the MSU coaching staff and asked that Ray be given his starting spot for the game. Foreman’s wish was granted, and an emotional Ray was allowed to take the field for the first play of the game.
Ray is one of six athletes who make up the finalists for the award.
Fans can cast their vote at facebook.com/CourageInSports each week. The winner will be announced on Nov. 13 at 5 p.m. on a CBS special that honors athletes who have overcome challenges outside of competition.
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