The American Football Coaches Association will recognize former New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani with the 2009 Tuss McLaughry Award. Established in 1964, the AFCA’s highest honor is bestowed on “a distinguished American for the highest distinction in service to others.”

DeOrmond “Tuss” McLaughry was the first full-time secretary-treasurer of the AFCA.

Giuliani will accept the award at the AFCA Coach of the Year Dinner on January 13. He joins six former U.S. presidents, seven generals, five astronauts and several entertainers who have won the award in the past.

“I am deeply honored to be joining the very distinguished list of recipients of the McLaughry Award,” Giuliani said. “The AFCA’s longstanding dedication to the development of football coaches and the game itself are vital to helping football players reach their full potential on and off the field.  So thank you AFCA for all you have done and continue to do for this truly American sport.”

The AFCA is honoring Giuliani for his work as a U.S. attorney and mayor of New York City, citing a “dramatically reduced crime rate” and “emphasis on work rather than benefits” as hallmarks of his public service.

For more information, visit www.afca.com.