May 9, 2000

DURHAM, N.C. ---- Duke junior Ramsey Smith (Hilton Head, S.C.) has been honored as the recipient of the ITA Region 2 Tennis Magazine/Arthur Ashe, Jr. Sportsmanship & Leadership Award. The annual award, presented only to junior or senior collegiate tennis players, honors tennis accomplishments, sportsmanship, leadership and character as well as humanitarian concern and accomplishments.

Smith is now one of seven finalists from across the country to be considered for the national award. This is the second sportsmanship award for Smith this season, as he was honored with the USTA Sportsmanship Award at the National Team Indoor Championships in February.

Smith is Duke's top ranked player, currently at No. 34 in the national rankings. An All-ACC selection who has also earned a berth in the NCAA singles and doubles championships, he has compiled a 23-10 record in singles this season, and is part of the nation's fifth-ranked doubles team with teammate Doug Root.

Smith is also an ACC Honor Roll student who is also involved in Athletes in Action and Habitat for Humanity. He is the son of Stan Smith, former Wimbledon and U.S. Open Champion.