Pats Solder Receives 2016 Ed Block Courage Award

The New England Patriots announced Tuesday that left tackle Nate Solder had been selected as the team's recipient of the 2016 Ed Block Courage Award. 

The Award, which pays tribute to longtime Baltimore Colts trainer Ed Block and his efforts both as an athletic trainer and humanitarian, is given to one player on each team every season. Each team's representative is voted on by his teammates.

Solder has faced multiple personal and professional setbacks over the past handful of years, including battling cancer, dealing with a season ending biceps injury in 2015 and coping with his infant son's own cancer diagnosis.

Through it all, Solder has continued to play well for the Pats, leading the offensive line. He has also put in plenty of time with local YMCA programs and has helped to raise awareness for the Joe Andruzzi Foundation, which aims to financially aid families that have been affected by cancer.

Hats off to Solder for his efforts in not only being a top player on the field, but also a key member of the community. In the face of great tribulations, he has shown that you can succeed and help others to thrive if you refuse to quit.