DALLAS (NCBWA) – Because of his outstanding commitment to college baseball, John Manuel, one of the leading experts as a writer, radio commentator and television analyst, has been named as the winner of the 2003 National Collegiate Baseball Writers' Wilbur Snypp Award. He is the third recipient to be honored from Baseball America, following Jim Callis (2000) and Allen Simpson (1998).

"John is one of the most dedicated baseball writers, especially on the college beat, in America," said NCBWA Executive Director Bo Carter. "He has won many national awards, and this is just another he can add to a well-stocked trophy case. John has been a great friend and adviser to NCBWA for many years as well."

Manuel, 31, has worked at Baseball America in Durham, N.C., since 1996 and took over the college beat from former Wilbur Snypp winner Callis in the summer of 1997. He has covered each of the last six College World Series for Baseball America and has provided daily coverage of every game for the last five CWS on BaseballAmerica.com.

He started writing his twice-weekly web column in April 1999. He also has done television work for ESPN, College Sports Television and Comcast Cable and this summer provided radio color commentary for Team USA's eight games in Durham. A North Carolina native and UNC alumnus, Manuel is married to Becky Kirkland and lives in Cary, N.C.

"I'm very humbled and honored to have won this award for doing a job I love," Manuel said. "College baseball is important to Baseball America magazine and BaseballAmerica.com, and I would not have been in position to be considered for the award if not for BA's commitment to the sport. That commitment is the main reason that three BA staffers have now won the Snypp, and we intend to maintain that commitment with the help of players and coaches who shape the sport. Thank you."

Manuel is the 29th recipient of the annual award, which is presented in memory of longtime Ohio State Sports Information Director and NCBWA founder, the late Wilbur (Bill) Snypp. Snypp was a noted contributor to the writers' organization, which was initiated in 1962 (and celebrating its 40th year in 2001), as well as an officer in the group.

The NCBWA/Wilbur Snypp Award yearly honors a professional for contributions to the sport of collegiate baseball. Voting is done by a panel of previous winners, who include past NCAA World Series directors, College Sports Information Directors of America Hall of Fame members, decorated media members, and others.