Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mats Sundin has been named the winner of the 2007-08 Mark Messier Leadership Award. The award recognizes Sundin's outstanding performance as a player, his leadership skills and his dedicated humanitarian efforts.
"The truest test of leadership comes during periods of adversity," said Messier. "When presented with difficult times during the season, Mats Sundin remained committed to his teammates, his community and to the game of hockey. I am honored to present the Mark Messier Leadership Award to Mats Sundin. He understands the importance of his status in Toronto and his dedication to his community is unmatched. The strength of his character makes Mats a tremendous role model both on and off the ice."
"I am honored and humbled to receive this prestigious award," said Sundin. "I thank Mark for this honor as well as my current and former teammates for their tremendous support. I strongly believe that an important part of being an athlete is to be a great teammate, leader and philanthropist."
Off the ice, Sundin has been a member of the Maple Leafs organization since 1994 and a supporter of the Leafs Fund, an organization committed to improving the health and wellness of children and youth in the Toronto community through access to sports and recreation opportunities.
On the ice, led the team in goals (32), assists (46) and points (78) and became the all-time franchise leader in goals and points.