Even though collegiate sports are taking a hiatus, one University of Richmond sports club is celebrating a member’s accomplishment as the best player in the country.

Harris Cannon, ’20, was a member of the UR’s ultimate frisbee team, the Spidermonkeys, and received the 2020 Donovan Award for the 2019-20 season recognizing him as the nation’s player of the year. The Donovan Award is presented by Ultiworld, a news site dedicated to the sport, to a Division III player who demonstrates an exceptional level of skill and athleticism on the field, upholds the principles of the game, and displays leadership on the team and in the greater ultimate community.   

“This was some good news in a tough spring,” said David Salisbury, the Spidermonkeys’ faculty advisor. “Harris is a great ambassador for UR.”

Cannon was elected captain during his senior year and was part of the winningest class in program history, including three Atlantic Coast championships and two semifinals appearances at the USA Ultimate national championship.

Cannon’s teammates are proud of his accomplishment, said Daniel Scherzer, ‘21, the team’s vice president.

“Harris was a standout player all four years on the team,” Scherzer said, “He’s known for his ability to shut down the best player on the other team and for his inspiring athleticism and complete commitment to finishing plays on offense and defense through layout scores and blocks.”

Check out Harris’ highlight video.