Dick Groat is known as perhaps the greatest athlete to come out of Pittsburgh.
His storied career as a shortstop for the Pirates, was preceded by a season in the NBA, and an All-American basketball career at Duke — a rare combination of talents in any era.
These days, Groat brings his insight and wit to Pitt fans as the color commentator for Pitt basketball radio broadcasts.
Wednesday night, the kid who was born in Wilkinsburg, was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 80th annual Dapper Dan Dinner and Sports Auction at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.
“What do you say after all that?” joked Groat, when he came to the podium after a video tribute that included excerpts of his career and kind words from greats like Ralph Kiner, Bill Mazersoki, and Bob Knight, among others.
Groat regaled the crowd with stories, including one from his first year with the Pirates, in 1952, when the club lost 112 games.
“But to me, and to one of my friends whose sitting to my left here, Bob Friend, it was like Christmas Day to drive from Swissvale to Forbes Field and play for the Pittsburgh Pirates,” said Groat. “Something I’ve dreamed of my whole life.”
A two-sport All-American at Duke, Groat played point guard for the Fort Wayne Pistons in 1952-53 then won two World Series titles and a National League MVP in his 14 major league seasons, nine as a Pirate.
The Lifetime Achievement Award is given for outstanding athletic performance during his playing career and imprint on the fabric of Pittsburgh sports. Four more major awards were given out.
Steelers star wide receiver Antonio Brown was named Sportsman of the Year for a second consecutive year, but was unable to attend the event.
“The game of football is not an individual sport, it takes a team to achieve the ultimate goal. That is our mindset of 2016,” said Brown via video.
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin accepted the award on Brown’s behalf and said he was humbled to speak for such a dedicated player.
“He thanks himself, and if you don’t know AB that often can be misconstrued,” said Tomlin. “This guy works ridiculously hard, and the commitment that he makes each and every day is a unique one. This guy is totally dedicated to being the best he can be. ... We’re always going to get his best. For that, I’m thankful and I humbly accept this on his behalf.”
Megan Klingenberg, a standout for the World Cup champion U.S. women’s team was named Sportswoman of the Year, but also was unable to attend because she is training in Texas with the national team.
“I’m so sorry that I’m not able to be there on this very special night,” Klingenberg, who grew up in Gibsonia, said via video. “I will say that I am so honored and humbled to win this award. I know how special and prestigious the Dapper Dan is in Pittsburgh.”
Rob and Cindy Citrone, part owners of the Steelers since 2008, were honored with the Dr. Freddie Fu Sports Leadership award for their passionate investments in Pittsburgh sports, in addition to their philanthropic vision as benefactors to several Pittsburgh area charities. Retired Steelers safety Troy Polamalu and his wife Theodora presented the award to the Citrones.
Penguins winger Pascal Dupuis, who hung up his skates in November due to blood-clotting issues, was given the first Dapper Dan Courage Award for his inspiring efforts when faced with adversity.
“I don’t consider myself courageous,” Dupuis told the crowd. “I wasn’t trying to be a hero. I was blessed to do what I love for as long as I did.”
The Dapper Dan charities were created by Pittsburgh Post-Gazette sports editor Al Abrams in 1936 in order to raise money for local charities. Today, the main beneficiary is the Boys and Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania.
Jenn Menendez: jmenendez@post-gazette.com and Twitter @JennMenendez.
First Published: February 18, 2016, 5:00 a.m.
Updated: February 18, 2016, 5:13 a.m.
